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The Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has recently announced a major expansion of the Jackson’s Coppice and Marsh nature reserve in the United Kingdom. This ambitious project aims to double the size of the protected area, a development made possible by a significant legacy gift from a dedicated supporter, David Aldred. Such donations, provided through individuals’ wills, are crucial for environmental charities as they provide the financial stability required for long-term conservation planning.

The expansion involves the acquisition of land south of the River Sow, encompassing diverse habitats such as wet woodlands, marshes, and pastureland. By increasing the reserve’s scale, the trust intends to restore these vital environments, which are essential for various species to thrive, forage, and reproduce. This move is seen as a major step forward in protecting local biodiversity against the challenges of a changing climate.

A key component of the trust’s strategy involves innovative floodplain management. Historically, heavy rainfall in the region has led to flooding issues for downstream residents. To address this, the trust plans to manage the river’s flow naturally. This will be achieved through the practice of coppicing—a traditional woodland management technique where trees are cut down to ground level to stimulate new growth. By coppicing mature alder trees and managing willow growth, the trust can effectively slow the river’s movement. These methods not only enhance the diversity of local flora and fauna but also serve a practical purpose by alleviating the risk of flooding for nearby communities.

In addition to its ecological benefits, the project will enhance public access to the countryside. New footpaths are currently being designed, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of trails and experience the natural beauty of the region firsthand. This initiative demonstrates how the generosity of a single individual can leave a lasting impact on the environment. Ultimately, the project highlights the importance of protecting and managing habitats to ensure that local ecosystems remain resilient for future generations.

1. What is the main purpose of the article?

• A.To explain the historical origins of the River Sow.
• B.To highlight how a donation is helping to expand a nature reserve.
• C.To provide technical instructions on the practice of coppicing.
• D.To encourage the public to donate more money to wildlife charities.

2. According to the text, why was David Aldred’s gift particularly helpful?

• A.It allowed the trust to pay off its existing debts immediately.
• B.It was used to build a new visitor center in Staffordshire.
• C.It provided the trust with the confidence to plan for the long term.
• D.It was the largest donation the trust had ever received from the government.

3. What can be inferred about the trust’s approach to managing the River Sow?

• A.They are using traditional methods to provide modern environmental solutions.
• B.They believe that the local wildlife is more important than the safety of residents.
• C.They intend to build artificial barriers to stop the river from flowing.
• D.They are planning to remove all the trees along the riverbank.

4. What is the writer’s attitude towards the project mentioned in the article?

• A.Critical of the amount of money spent on tree cutting.
• B.Impressed by the positive impact an individual’s contribution can have.
• C.Skeptical about whether the new footpaths will be used.
• D.Uncertain about the effectiveness of natural flood management.

5. The word ‘alleviate’ in the third paragraph is closest in meaning to:

• A.Identify
• B.Reduce
• C.Increase
• D.Describe