PM 16 - Enhance aquatic habitats by reducing levels of freshwater pollutants
- Code
- PM 16
- Measure
- Enhance aquatic habitats by reducing levels of freshwater pollutants
- Description
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Key pollutants of watercourses in Herefordshire include phosphates as well as nitrates on the River Clun. These can be from point sources, such as a discharge location or diffuse sources, such as run off from land adjacent to freshwater habitats. Practices which minimise nutrient run off and leaching should be promoted across the county and engagement will be key to a significant reduction in pollutant levels. Engagement should span across a variety of stakeholder types, from farmers and sewage treatment companies to landowners and developers, all of whom can contribute to improving water quality.
- Wider environmental benefits
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Improving air quality Improving water quality Supporting health and cultural services Improving soil health Promoting nature friendly farming
- Links to additional information and guidance
- Priority
- Freshwater habitats are safeguarded
- Priority description
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Herefordshire has many important freshwater habitats such as Pearl lake, Bodenham Lake, Titley Pool, and the Rivers Wye and Clun, which are both Special Areas of Conservation. Ice age ponds are also a significant feature of the county’s landscape, formed by glacial activity, The largest of these is Pearl Lake in Shobdon. They offer a range of freshwater habitats and support many of Herefordshire’s rarest species. Herefordshire is at risk of flooding with 8% of the county classed within an active floodplain. All rivers, water and wetland habitats are under threat, in particular from pollution from agricultural runoff and sewage discharges, resulting in several catchments failing key targets on ecological condition and chemical thresholds. Climate change has also resulted in low flows and high temperatures threatening river health, in particular the River Wye, due to its size. Herefordshire’s freshwater habitats provide vital homes for a variety of wildlife and also provide important benefits to society, for example through flood alleviation and recreational benefits.