PM 17 - Restore and enhance existing ponds
- Code
- PM 17
- Measure
- Restore and enhance existing ponds
- Description
-
Ponds are small waterbodies that can be permanent or seasonal, ranging in size from one square metre to two hectares. They are valuable freshwater habitats, in particular ice age ponds in Herefordshire. Identifying and mapping these ponds to build on existing datasets such as the Ordnance Survey Priority Ponds layer will be key in understanding their current extent and ensuring they can be restored and safeguarded in the future. . Restoration of ponds will include actions such as reducing shading through traditional tree management, and de-silting.
- Wider environmental benefits
-
Improving air quality Improving water quality Increasing flood risk management Reducing climate change impact Promoting nature friendly farming Controlling invasive species
- Links to additional information and guidance
- Priority
- Freshwater habitats are safeguarded
- Priority description
-
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.