Bournemouth Water has teamed up with a local Scout group in Christchurch to support vital bat conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and community involvement in protecting local ecosystems.
Gemma Morgan, Environment Officer at Bournemouth Water, recently led an interactive session with the Scouts to explore the essential role bats play in the natural environment.
Following the presentation, the Scout group rolled up their sleeves and built 25 sturdy bat boxes which have now been installed at Knapp Mill Water Treatment Works.
Water treatment sites, like Knapp Mill, can provide valuable habitats for bats thanks to their relatively undisturbed nature and the abundance of waterborne insects which provide an ideal feeding habitat for the bats.
By installing bat boxes, Bournemouth Water is helping to create safe roosting spaces for local bat populations, while also benefiting from natural pest control and contributing to local biodiversity.
The initiative is part of Bournemouth Water’s wider environmental programme, which focuses on promoting biodiversity, engaging with communities, and supporting long-term environmental resilience across the region.
Gemma Morgan, Environment Officer at Bournemouth Water said:
“Bats are a strong indicator of a healthy environment, and water treatment sites like ours can play a key role in supporting their conservation.
“It was fantastic to see the Scouts so engaged and enthusiastic about the bats. They’ve helped make a real difference by making these boxes for us and we are really grateful for their support.”
The Scouts’ handmade bat boxes will be monitored at Knapp Mill as part of ongoing conservation efforts, providing useful data about local bat species and their activity.
Stephen Haskell, Lead Volunteer at 1st Christchurch Town Scout Group said:
“The Scouts were inspired by nature after spending a week camping in the New Forest, learning how to stay safe and protect wildlife. After summer, we wanted to build on that interest, so I contacted Gemma, who suggested making Bat Boxes for Knapp Mill.
“Over three weeks, with help from leaders and parents, the Scouts built the bat boxes, which are now installed at Knapp Mill and visible from the footpath. They all earned their Naturalist Badge and are excited to hear how the bats take to their new homes.”
Read more information about bats and why it is important to support them.