Bristol Parks and FOBW have discussed and agreed a grounds maintenance programme for 2009 that is not too dissimilar to that pursued in previous years.

The 2 wildflower meadows and the rough grass areas ("Bowness Gardens") will be left to grow unchecked all season and receive a hay-cut in late August/early September. This will allow the resident invertebrates to thrive in an undisturbed habitat.

The ex-football pitches will continue to be close-mown as necessary and commensurate with remaining an open recreational area.

The tumulus will receive a Spring "haircut" and, if necessary, a second "trim" later in the season. The grassed area around the base of the tumulus will be mown periodically (about every 3 weeks). It is hoped that these actions will allow the tumulus to be seen in its best light and make it easy for visitors to find.

Now that Badock's Wood has been lucky enough to secure the services of a Park Keeper (albeit shared with other Parks and Open Spaces in Southmead), the undergrowth adjacent to the main (hard) paths and the extension to Dark Lane will be cut back as necessary to allow free access along the paths. The hard paths will also be swept when required.

                             Tumulus, Before (January 2006)            &                   After ”Haircut“ (March 2006)