Dewlands Common
Dewlands common is situated to the south west of Verwood town.
Introduction
Dewlands is the southern most of the three Verwood UHLP sites. It has been flailed in September 2003, removing much of the leggy gorse that crowded it. It is much more open now and the extra light will help the populations of smooth snake and sand lizards thrive.
Area
12 Hectares
Designation
The site is Site of Special Scientific Interest(SSSI) and a Local Nature Reserve (LNR)
Management
The site is owned by East Dorset District Council and Managed by the wardens of East Dorset Countryside Management Service
Site Description
The site comprises 12 hectares of lowland heath. It is divided up into three sections, the north, south and central parts.
Habitats
Dewlands common is an area of lowland heath but much of it had become overgrown by leggy gorse. However work done has given it some much needed attention. There are open areas of heather on the reserve with sandy areas and good south facing slopes used by the sand lizard populations.
Flora and Fauna
Sand Lizards and smooth snakes can be found on the site.
