Meet the staff - Charlotte Pestell

Charlotte Pestell is Project Officer for our ambitious new wetlands recreation project on the Pevensey Levels. We found out more about her

Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm local - I was born in Hastings. Growing up by the sea meant I've always been very aware of it. I've almost always had access to open spaces and been grateful for it, especially after a spell living in London, when I really reacted to what I was missing. I'm driven by wanting to protect my environment and make sure it's around for the next generation.

In work terms, I've had quite a bit of experience working on farms across Europe, as well as working in different wet habitats, such as a project that involved diving to work with Seagrass and most recently, working for the RSPB on another wetland creation project in Kent. 

What does your role on the Pevensey Levels Project involve?

Making sure the project runs smoothly, working with the contractors doing the excavation work to make sure this is being carried out according to specifications. I was involved in prepping beforehand, so getting all the planning consents etc. Keeping everyone involved up to speed. Then, once the works are done, making sure there's a Management Plan in place, working with Site Managers to make sure the wetlands are managed in a way that everyone is happy with and ensures biodiversity is increased. 

So sometimes I'm on the computer drawing up maps and working out what the ground will look like when flooded, sometimes I'm on the ground getting very muddy. Working with people and getting them on board is important, helping those that are interested to get involved. 

We will want to take any lessons forward we learn from the project in due course.

What do you love about the Pevensey Levels?

It's an awe-inspiring site with a variety of wildlife habitats. I love the big skies, the beautiful flocks of geese. And I love seeing a Hobby catch a dragonfly..

What results might we see on Pevensey Levels and when?

We've already got flocks of Golden Plover, Lapwing and Oystercatchers coming in to the newly-created scrapes. We expect some breeding waders in spring when the ditches fill up.   

Do roles working in wet habitats require particular outfits?

I've all manner of waders, wet suits, wellies and whole rubber outfits!

What would an ideal Sunday afternoon look like?

A journey that involved a swim (in any body of water), a walk in woodland, and a bit of open sky. And some Ju-jitsu or skateboarding.