Project Description

Marsh Clubmoss is a simple plant related to both ferns and mosses. It forms long leafy prostrate strands that meander along the soil surface, but in the autumn develops vertical ‘spikes’ with tiny, pale brown spore cases at the tips. It is principally threatened by building development, including the development of mud tracks, the decline of sustainable peat-cutting, overgrazing and pollution, both land and air. As a result it is mainly found on the west wide of Britain and Ireland.

Pillwort is a type of creeping fern, difficult to spot due to its thin, grass-like leaves growing alongside water grasses and rushes. Although this tiny plant can still be found at a number of sites across Britain it is internationally threatened as it is declining in much of its European range.

We are therefore conducting a group Marsh Clubmoss and Pillwort survey on Hartland Moor and Stoborough Heath in order to determine their population sizes and distributions across the sites.

All are welcome, from experts to novices, with no need to have done any prior training.

Wellies are essential, but also bring binoculars, a GPS, and a notebook/clipboard if you have them.

Please bring lunch and plenty of drink.