It should be the most inhospitable part of Blacka for wildlife with traffic passing within a few feet but conservation policy elsewhere on the site makes it, comparatively, a haven.
The wild flower interest on the northern and western boundaries of Blacka is in stark contrast with managed desolation of other parts of the 'reserve'. A little sweetness in the soil helps but the lack of managerial intervention has been a key factor. That may change as there are suggestions in the management plan that some meddling is being considered. That's what they do after all and unfortunately not very well.
Meadow Cranesbill is everywhere, delightfully, in the White Peak but a welcome visitor here.
Several vetches are here among a number of species which would be seen in the sheep enclosure if the woolly mowers were only banished.
Many of these are common species across the country. But the obsession with target species in the conservation industry often means they ignore the natural beauty of that which they see as less special.
Is there anywhere another place like Blacka for illustrating how those charged with the care of natural beauty in our landscapes have totally lost their way? Sadly I think there may be many others and reports from so-called 'Wild Ennerdale' suggest they may never recover their sense of direction.
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