Jersey Water has decided to reopen part of Queen’s Valley reservoir that has been closed for months due to a rat infestation, with rodent numbers now “significantly reduced” and the situation “more under control”.
But the utility company has reminded islanders not to feed wildlife at the site, explaining that a small number of visitors “persistently” doing so had caused the problem in the first place.
We don’t want the actions of a few to keep spoiling others’ enjoyment of the space.
facilities manager Terry Gasnier
The top section of the reservoir was closed in April following the emergence of the “rat issue”, which presented a public health risk and was also resulting in damage to fences and gates.
In an update today, Jersey Water announced that the area will reopen to the public tomorrow, adding that: “Since the closure, the water utility has taken targeted action to try to stop the food source and protect public health.
“With the rodent population now more under control and numbers significantly reduced, Jersey Water is continuing to closely monitor the situation in partnership with other local agencies.”
Facilities manager Terry Gasnier said: “We know how much Queen’s Valley means to the community, and we are pleased to be in a position to reopen it once again for everyone to enjoy.”
He added: “It’s certainly been a challenge for us because of the constant feeding, but we don’t want the actions of a few to keep spoiling others’ enjoyment of the space.
“We absolutely want to keep the reservoir open to the public but we will only be able to
keep the pest population under constant control if visitors stop feeding the wildlife.”