Ballard Nature Reserve
New Milton Town Council are responsible for Ballard Nature Reserve (previously known as Ballard Water Meadow) designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). New Milton Town Council and the Friends of Ballard Nature Reserve volunteer group work closely together to manage this site in line with Environmental Stewardship requirements under Higher Level Stewardship.
Local Nature Reserve status was declared by the Council and supported by Natural England in recognition of its unique habitat containing a species-rich wildflower meadow, ancient semi-natural woodland and a natural unimpeded watercourse.
Normally a small herd of cattle provide conservation grazing for this important 4.25 hectare wildlife site. The site has full stock fencing around the meadow, secure gates and access to a water trough that is regularly checked. The grazing site is offered September to March, year on year.
New Milton Town Council work with the Friends of Ballard Nature Reserve to fulfil nature conservation objectives on the site. The Friends of Ballard Water Meadow have adopted a five-year management plan, devised jointly with the New Forest Land Advice Service, Natural England and New Forest National Park Authority, and agreed with New Milton Town Council.
Please see this list for Ballard Nature Reserve reports:
Click here to view the Ballard Water Meadow Management Policy 2025
Click here to view the Ballard Water Meadow Annual Report 2024-2025
Click here to view the 2024 Ballard Bird Census
Click here to view the 2025 Ballard Insect Survey
Click here to view the Ballard Butterfly Transect 2025
If you would like more information please Click here for more information about the Friends of Ballard Nature Reserve.
We hope you enjoy your visit.
Please help care for our special green spaces and remember the Countryside Code when visiting!