13 Buckland Pond

Buckland Green with its pond and church presents a classic village scene. The pond has been here since at least 1653 when it is shown on the Estate Map. The green itself is closely cropped, although this was not always the case. In the late 1940’s the grass was cut twice a year for hay and between cuts there was a wildflower meadow.

Like many ponds it is ephemeral, filling in the autumn and winter and drying out as the water table falls in spring and summer. It supports native frogs and newts, invertebrates like dragon and damsel flies and various wetland vegetation, such as iris, rushes and other marginal plants, providing a crucial breeding and feeding habitat.

Buckland Parish Council maintains a 5-year environmental management plan and partners with organizations like the Reigate Area Conservation Volunteers to periodically clear the pond and record emerging flora and fauna.