The OVA provides a focus for members with an interest in, or concern for, wild plants and animals, as well as agricultural practices, in or near the River Otter. It carries out wildlife surveys from time to time, either independently or in collaboration with other bodies. It also monitors the actions and publications of the Environment Agency and wildlife conservation bodies for this area. 

The Otter Estuary looking South from Little Bank

The OVA takes a practical interest in environmental projects in the lower Otter Valley. A brief description of some of these projects is given below:

• Osprey on the Lower Otter Nature Reserve

• Guide to Bug Hotels

• Guide to Bird Nest Boxes

• Management of the Pebblebed Heaths

• Himalayan Balsam

• Climate change

• Birds of the Otter Estuary - reference photo gallery, compiled by members

• OVA evidence submitted to the Glover Review of Landscape Designations - Dec 2018

Also we have published two full colour leaflets on the wildlife and flowers of the Lower Otter Valley.

Learn about the distinctive character of the Devon Redlands in which  our area lies.