Biodiversity Action Plan - Eutrophic Standing Water - Field Ponds, Lakes, Canals and Reservoirs

Action plan and proposed targets

To create or restore where appropriate, 100 field ponds by 2010 No further loss of notable aquatic plant communities from canal SSSIs and Wildlife Sites by 2010

Introduction

Eutrophic standing water is nutrient rich and is found in field ponds, lakes, canals, gravel pits and reservoirs. In Leicestershire and Rutland reservoirs such as Rutland Water, Eyebrook and Swithland reservoirs have national or international ecological importance. Many of these sites have statutory designations that afford some degree of protection. However similar designations have failed to protect the notable plant and invertebrate communities associated with the counties’ canals. Increasing boat traffic and associated ‘restoration’ work is threatening the long –term survival of many species in canals. Field ponds were once a familiar feature of the Leicestershire and Rutland countryside, having been dug wherever a natural water supply for stock to drink from was not available. Although many are small, collectively they represent a significant ecological resource. With the conversion of much grazing land to arable farming, field ponds frequently no longer served a purpose, and so many were filled in.

Some characteristic species

Reservoirs attract large flocks of wildfowl including, at Rutland Water, internationally significant numbers of Gadwall (Anas strepera) and Shoveler (Anas clypeata). The Grand Union and Ashby Canals are particularly important for aquatic plants such as the nationally scare Grass-wrack Pondweed (Potamogeton compressus) and the rare Flat-stalked Pondweed (Potamogeton friesii). The Grantham Canal is notable as being the best site for Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) in the area. 17 species have been recorded and it is the only local site for the rare Variable Damselfly (Coenagrion pulchellum). 41 species notable in Leicestershire and Rutland including Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus, other amphibian species, and many invertebrates are associated with field ponds (Lott 1997).

Most important factors affecting the habitat

• Eutrophication from fertiliser application to surrounding land. 
• Increased recreational use, including boating and fishing, with associated dredging and management. 
• Ponds: excessive scrub development around margins and silting up. 
• Filling in.

Proposed action with lead agencies

Site safeguard and management

• Promote creation of new field ponds through agri-environment schemes. (DEFRA-RDS)
• Promote, through agri-environment schemes, buffer strips and less intensive land use around water bodies. (DEFRA-RDS)
• Continue to protect and enhance all eutrophic standing water SSSIs, particularly where threatened by increased recreational use (EN)
• Provide advice on appropriate management to owners/managers of all eutrophic standing water Wildlife sites. (LRWT)
• Ensure eutrophic standing water Wildlife Sites are protected in development plans by 2010. (LAs)
• Encourage the retention and creation of ponds in new developments.( LAs)

Survey and monitoring

• Identify through full survey, all eutrophic standing water meeting Wildlife Site criteria. LAs Monitor known populations of notable aquatic plants. (LRWT)

Communications and publicity

• Promote the value of eutrophic standing water and its management through guided walks, talks, etc. (LRWT)