PORTRACK MARSH
This 16 hectare site is part owned by the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust with the remainder owned by Northumbria Water but leased to the Trust for use as an extension to this important wildlife habitat. It is a site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI).
The original Portrack Marsh was destroyed on 1831 when the Tees was straightened to allow large ships to get to the port of Stockton. Before this, a large meander bent northwards around the marsh and stretched up to Portrack Lane. Ships were pulled along the meander, a process known as "racking" hence the name Portrack.
The site supports a number of important wading birds including teal, wigeon and redshank. Breeding birds include bunting, reed warbler and ringed plover.
Further details about this site can be obtained from the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust website: www. teeswildlife.org
