A rare floating water plantain is getting the chance to thrive on the Montgomery Canal, thanks to a biodiversity grant from the Welsh government.

The Montgomery Canal is one of the world’s leading sites for the Luronium natans floating water plantain. The canal is already a Site of Special Scientific Interest for . . . → Read More: Biodiversity grant for Montgomery Canal]]> 26th Jan 2012

A rare floating water plantain is getting the chance to thrive on the Montgomery Canal, thanks to a biodiversity grant from the Welsh government.

The Montgomery Canal is one of the world’s leading sites for the Luronium natans floating water plantain. The canal is already a Site of Special Scientific Interest for almost half its length and a Special Area of Conservation for its entire length within Wales.

The £60k award from the Ecosystem Resilience, Diversity and Compliance Fund will allow British Waterways’ ecologists to improve the canal habitat. Work will include dredging near Brynderwyn Lock and trial management of in-channel nature reserves. A downloadable wildlife interpretation trail for visitors will also be created, covering the stretch of canal from Welshpool Town Wharf to the nature reserve at Whitehouse Bridge.

Protecting rare plants

Stuart Moodie, ecologist, British Waterways said: “This is a great project to improve the ecosystem and increase understanding of the importance of the wildlife on the Montgomery Canal. The canal is already a well-loved attraction. The funding will enable us to carry out vital dredging works. This will improve and protect the natural habitats along the canal, which provide safe havens for its rare creatures and plant life.”

As the steady restoration of the canal progresses, British Waterways and partners are committed to the carefully managed use of the waterway to ensure a sustainable future for these rare communities of flora and fauna.

via Biodiversity grant for Montgomery Canal | News | Waterscape.

British Waterways want to improve the environment at the Caen Hill Flight of Locks near Devizes for scarce aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Large fish are being removed from the . . . → Read More: Fish to be relocated from Kennet and Avon canal]]> More than half a tonne of fish is being removed from a section of the Kennet and Avon Canal as part of a "habitat enhancement project".

British Waterways want to improve the environment at the Caen Hill Flight of Locks near Devizes for scarce aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Large fish are being removed from the side ponds of the famous lock flight.

The relocation will see less silt disturbed, enhancing water quality and limiting predation of smaller fish.

British Waterways’ ecologist Oda Dijksterhuis said: "The fish relocations happening this week will help to improve the habitat of the other ponds on the flight, so hopefully we’ll see more plants and invertebrates appear in the coming months around all of Caen Hill’s ponds."

A trial project in 2009 saw a tonne of fish, including large tench, carp, bream, roach, perch and pike removed from the ponds.

"We take great care of the fish throughout every part of the process and local anglers will welcome the release of some of these larger fish into the canal," said John Ellis, fisheries manager for British Waterways.

via BBC News – Fish to be relocated from Kennet and Avon canal.

Mrs Spelman also announced that an independent panel of experts will examine forestry policy in England and report back to her in the . . . → Read More: DEFRA Calls off Forest sales]]> The consultation on the future management of the Public Forest Estate has been halted and all forestry clauses in the Public Bodies Bill will be removed, Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman confirmed today.

Mrs Spelman also announced that an independent panel of experts will examine forestry policy in England and report back to her in the autumn.

Speaking in the House of Commons the Environment Secretary said;

“I would first like to say that I take full responsibility for the situation that brings me before the House today.

“Let me make it clear that we have always placed the highest priority on preserving access and protecting our forests. But the forestry clauses in the Public Bodies Bill, published well before we launched the consultation, gave the wrong impression as to the Government’s intentions.

“That is why I am today announcing three steps which will allow for more measured and rational debate about the future direction of forestry policy.

“First, I have taken a decision to end the consultation on the future of the Public Forest Estate and I take full responsibility for that. I am doing so because it is quite clear from the early responses to the consultation that the public and many MPs are not happy with the proposals we set out.

“Second, the Government will support the removal of the forestry clauses from the Public Bodies Bill, currently at committee stage in the House of Lords.

“And thirdly I would like to announce that I am establishing an independent Panel to consider forestry policy in England. It will report to me with its findings this autumn. The Panel will advise me on the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England, on the role of the Forestry Commission, and on the role of the Public Forest Estate. The Panel will include representatives of key environmental and access organisations alongside representatives of the forestry industry. I will shortly publish its membership and terms of reference.

“If there is one clear message from this experience, it is that people cherish their forests and woodlands and the benefits they bring. My first priority throughout this period of debate has been securing a sustainable future for our woodlands and forests. On many occasions in the House last autumn, Ministers gave assurances that our aim in all of this has been to do more to maintain and enhance the public benefits delivered by forestry – from recreational access to wildlife protection; from tackling climate change to sustaining a wide range of small businesses. That is why my ambition to provide a better future for our forests is undiminished.

“We have already heard positive suggestions about how we can do this – for heritage forests and all other woodlands. We have spoken to the RSPB, the National Trust, the Woodland Trust, the Wildlife Trusts, the Ramblers and other groups. The Forestry Commission has itself acknowledged that change is needed and will of course be fully engaged in this process going forward, as I know they have many ideas to contribute.

“We have also been listening to MPs on all sides of the House many of whom have set up their own initiatives with local groups. We want to support them in this.

“Finally, I am sorry, we got this one wrong, but we have listened to people’s concerns. I would like to thank colleagues for their support through what has been a difficult time. I now want to move forward in step with the public. I hope that the measures I have announced today, signalling a fresh approach, demonstrate my intention to do the right thing for our forests and woodlands.”

via News : NDS.

British Waterways is looking for volunteers to help install and maintain bird boxes at Stewponey near Kinver on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.

The activity, taking place between 10am and 12pm on Saturday 19th February, will be led by a British Waterways ecologist who will show participants how to maintain existing bird . . . → Read More: Volunteers sought to improve wildlife habitats]]> 7th Feb 2011

British Waterways is looking for volunteers to help install and maintain bird boxes at Stewponey near Kinver on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.

The activity, taking place between 10am and 12pm on Saturday 19th February, will be led by a British Waterways ecologist who will show participants how to maintain existing bird boxes as well as how to locate and install new boxes. The event coincides with National Nest Box Week (14th – 21st Feb) which is organised each year by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO).

Canals and rivers provide excellent habitat and breeding spots for a wide range of wildlife, including some protected species, but with many natural nesting sites on the decline there is a danger that birds will move to other areas. It’s hoped that the boxes will provide homes for species such as Willow Tit, Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Tree Sparrow, although the more common Great tit, Blue tit and Wren are very welcome too.

As well as installing new boxes the volunteers will also be carrying out the important task of cleaning out the existing ones to remove any parasites and build-up of debris ready for the breeding season.

Pest control

While they’re at it the volunteers will also be helping to install boxes to attract Soprano Pipistrelle and the Daubenton’s Bats. Bats are very important species for their control of pest insects and may even play a role in the control of diseases that are spread by midges and mosquitoes. Frequently birds and bats try to nest in the same boxes so by providing different types of box the volunteers will help to ensure that both can happily live alongside each other.

British Waterways ecologist Paul Wilkinson said; “Unfortunately the natural nest sites which many of our bird species depend on are fast disappearing but activities such as the Stewponey event will provide a timely boost ahead of the nesting season.

“Birds are very territorial when it comes to nesting and it would be a real shame if they were driven away due to a lack of safe, warm places in which to lay their eggs. By installing these boxes we’ll be able to maintain, and hopefully improve, the diversity of bird species that people can see by the canal”.

Booking is essential and anyone wishing to participate can do so by contacting Paul Wilkinson on 01827 252000 or paul.wilkinson@britishwaterways.co.uk

via Home tweet home | News | Waterscape.

A decision has been made to extend the Tees Fish Pass Study into a fourth year to allow the White Water Canoe Course project at Tees Barrage to be completed

The study extension from three to four years has been agreed with the Environment Agency and the Angling Trust and will resume . . . → Read More: Tees fish pass study extended]]> 8th Nov 2010

A decision has been made to extend the Tees Fish Pass Study into a fourth year to allow the White Water Canoe Course project at Tees Barrage to be completed

The study extension from three to four years has been agreed with the Environment Agency and the Angling Trust and will resume in spring 2011.

The extra year will allow for more data to be collected and identify possible options on how to increase fish passage throughout the whole site including the fish pass, navigation lock, canoe slalom and over the barrage gates.

The fish tracking survey being carried out for British Waterways by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science aims to provide baseline scientific data to help everyone get a better understanding of the complex interactions and relationships around the fish and mammal populations that use the barrage for migration and feeding.

Tagging fish

The study involves tagging fish with acoustic transmitters and monitoring their movements using a network of receivers in the river and around the barrage. This enables the behaviour and fate of the fish to be assessed and the percentage of tagged fish being successful in passing the barrage to be calculated.

Neil Harvey, principal waterway engineer for British Waterways North East comments: “We’re pleased that the EA supports our decision to extend the fish pass study into a fourth year. The study extension will allow for two additional fish passes to be built into the new White Water Course upgrade, in addition to further assessment of the findings of the first two years. There is a risk if the fish monitoring continued during the construction period, that it would provide unreliable data.

“It seemed sensible to complete the canoe project first as when complete it’s expected that it will have some positive implications on fish numbers passing through the barrage. Therefore, this needs to be factored into future research data before being used in the last stage for final fish pass consent from the EA.”

Certain water flows are attractive to fish

The second year of the study revealed interesting correlations between fish movement and water flow, with the fish being attracted to certain water flows. Therefore, as part of the study, new tests will be carried out during the months of main fish migration (May to November) to find the most effective times and conditions for attracting and moving fish around the different parts of the Tees Barrage site.

Neil continues: “So far, the passage of ‘tagged fish’ over the barrage has been low but it is also the case that numbers of young salmon upstream of the barrage are increasing as shown by our trap data, as well as the number being caught by anglers and recent monitoring surveys by the EA. This shows that adult salmon are passing upstream and highlights the complexity of the issue.”

Predation by seals has often been cited as one of the main reasons for low numbers passing the barrage. As a result, trials with acoustic seal scarers have been carried out to assess if predation levels can be controlled. However, findings from the second year of the Cefas study have shown that only 14% of tagged fish were proven to have been eaten by seals. Of the remainder, 31% tagged fish died (could be predation but not proven), 14% tags were untraceable and 41% tagged fish returned to coastal waters.

via Tees fish pass study extended | News | Waterscape.

A new wildlife survey shows sightings of these iridescent water birds have trebled in the UK. Why?

Quick. Look. That darting speck of blue-green and rust-red – a kingfisher dipping into a river to catch a sprat. A fleeting flash of colour is all many people . . . → Read More: Why the resurgence in kingfishers?]]> 2 November 2010

A new wildlife survey shows sightings of these iridescent water birds have trebled in the UK. Why?

Quick. Look. That darting speck of blue-green and rust-red – a kingfisher dipping into a river to catch a sprat. A fleeting flash of colour is all many people will see of a fast-flying kingfisher.

In an annual survey of wildlife spotted around rivers and canals for British Waterways, the number of kingfishers seen by members of the public between March and September has risen 217% to 596, despite fears many of the birds might not survive last winter’s icy spell.

British Waterways says this shows the UK’s freshwater courses – slow-flowing streams, canals and lakes are the kingfisher’s natural habitat – are cleaner and better able to support a thriving ecosystem.

* Kingfishers need clean water in which to hunt small fish and aquatic insects

* So they benefit from moves to clean up waterways and create wetlands

* They reproduce fast

Water quality is a key factor in the kingfisher’s survival. It feeds on tadpoles, aquatic insects and small fish such as minnows and sticklebacks – so the water needs to be clean enough for the bird to see its tiny prey as it skims across the surface, or peers from an overhanging branch. Once it dives into the water, a kingfisher is effectively hunting blind, its eyes protected by a third eyelid.

A kingfisher needs to eat its body weight in fish and insects each day. And with chicks to feed, a breeding pair must hunt during every moment of daylight – in a family with seven chicks, the adults must catch about 5,000 fish throughout the summer.

The RSPB estimates there are between 4,800 and 8,000 breeding pairs thinly, but widely, spread across the UK. Their scarcity mean kingfishers are protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is illegal to take, kill or injure a kingfisher or its nest, eggs or young, or to intentionally disturb the birds during breeding season.

The kingfisher is not the only British waterbird to suffer from centuries of polluted waterways and wetlands drained for agriculture. Herons, cranes and avocets have also declined.

But the tide is now turning. Efforts are underway to clean up waterways and preserve, or make anew, places for these birds to live. This is in part thanks to special grants being made available, and farmers returning land to its former use.

The RSPB is surprised but heartened by the reported bounce in kingfisher sightings. Conservation spokesman Grahame Madge had feared a population drop of up to a third after last winter, the coldest in 30 years.

“In the hard winter of 1963, there was 85% mortality in some areas, and local extinction in others. Kingfishers are one of the worst affected by cold winters because they feed in shallow waters that ice over, leaving them at risk of starvation.”

But they are also well placed to recover after such a catastrophe – they reproduce fast and a breeding pair can raise three broods of chicks in a single season.

“They have also adapted very well to the habitat we provide for them, with the canal network and old gravel pits made over into wetland recreation areas,” says Mr Madge. “They even can be seen in the centre of cities such as Manchester, Birmingham and Exeter.”

Not only have polluted waters and icy weather done for kingfishers in the past, the little birds have been a victim of their own striking beauty.

Far more colourful than the average British bird, their electric blue plumage was sought after in Victorian times. “Their feathers were used in the production of fishing flies, and egg collecting was a popular pastime,” says Mr Madge.

This was also an era when feathers, wings, even whole birds adorned the hats, stoles and dresses of society women of the era, and taxidermists preserved stuffed birds under glass for those keen to bring a little piece of the countryside into their homes.

Not all well-to-do ladies of the time were so keen on these trends. A group in Manchester so objected to this needless slaughter, they took a stand against the plumage trade.

While the British are no less keen on birds today, today’s collectors gather sightings and photographs, rather than plumage and stuffed specimens.

Compiled by Megan Lane

via BBC News – Who, what, why: Why the resurgence in kingfishers?.

1st November 2010

During last year’s harsh winter there were gloomy predictions that waterside wildlife would be devastated.

However to the surprise of experts there has been a mini-renaissance in the birds and animals that depend on rivers, streams and ponds.

It was feared that kingfishers, in particular, would starve to death . . . → Read More: Kingfisher’s return crowns the great riverbank revival]]>

1st November 2010

During last year’s harsh winter there were gloomy predictions that waterside wildlife would be devastated.

However to the surprise of experts there has been a mini-renaissance in the birds and animals that depend on rivers, streams and ponds.

It was feared that kingfishers, in particular, would starve to death as water froze over.

But a survey of rivers and canals logged more than three times as many this year as last, proving the ‘river royalty’ to be more than a match for the weather.

The kingfisher is not the only species riding out the storm, with numbers of newts, toads and otters also on the rise.

British Waterways, which conducts the annual poll, had feared that coldest winter for more than 30 years had taken a devastating toll on wildlife.

Unable to break through the ice on ponds and streams to get food, thousands of kingfishers and other water birds were expected to starve to death.

Last summer’s floods also washed away many nests.

But against the odds there were 596 sightings this year, a 217 per cent rise on 2009.

Numbers of otters started to climb after harmful pesticides were banned in the 1970s and it became an offence to kill the animals intentionally. They are also benefiting from a clean-up of rivers, which has allowed fish to return.

The resurgence of the otter is good news for the water vole. Once a common sight, it became the fastest declining native mammal thanks to pollution, loss of habitat and predatory mink. The otter has benefited from cleaned-up rivers, allowing fish to return

The number of mink spotted this year dropped by more than a third, probably due to the rise of the otter.

Mark Robinson, British Waterways national ecology manager, said: ‘The decrease in the number of mink could be related to the recent increase in number of otters, as our native otters out-compete mink for territory. Water voles often make a tasty meal for mink.’

He added: ‘Following last winter’s harsh weather we were concerned that some species, and in particular kingfishers, could suffer. I’m delighted we’ve had so many records of kingfishers this year.

‘The results really show the resilience of nature and the importance of our canal and river network in providing vital shelter and food for a wide variety of wildlife.’

The survey logged a rise in house sparrows but drops in hedgehogs, grass snakes and coots.

via Kingfisher’s return crowns the great riverbank revival | Mail Online.

Made by man to fuel Britain’s industrial past, today’s canals have become a valuable habitat for a number of endangered and protected species, from water voles and otters to kingfishers and herons.

Bad housekeeping such as oil drips or spills from boats are clearly bad for the ecology of the . . . → Read More: Being Nice to Ratty]]> From Boaters’ Update October 2010.

Made by man to fuel Britain’s industrial past, today’s canals have become a valuable habitat for a number of endangered and protected species, from water voles and otters to kingfishers and herons.

Bad housekeeping such as oil drips or spills from boats are clearly bad for the ecology of the waterways. Similarly, when it comes to cleaning, it is important to remember that many products kill more than just germs and aren’t good news for ratty and his mates. Chemicals such as Triclosan, bleach and solvents used to clean and disinfect are toxic to aquatic life. Detergents with phosphate also encourage algal growth in the waterways.

Simple steps can be taken to minimise the impact that boat cleaning and maintenance can have on the environment. The accepted advice is to only use the amount required and dilute and use in line with the instructions. Avoid any runoff into the waterway and be aware of spill risks from open containers. If possible, the advice is to select environmentally sensitive or biodegradable cleaning products, for example phosphate and chlorine free products. Many supermarkets offer ‘eco-friendly’ options.

24th Sep 2010

Bat fans of all ages are being given a rare opportunity to observe the nocturnal creature’s annual party or ‘swarming’, as large numbers of bats come together to communicate, celebrate and generally show off for each other, possibly to breed before the onset of winter.

The evening walk along . . . → Read More: Watch a bat swarm on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal]]>

24th Sep 2010

Bat fans of all ages are being given a rare opportunity to observe the nocturnal creature’s annual party or ‘swarming’, as large numbers of bats come together to communicate, celebrate and generally show off for each other, possibly to breed before the onset of winter.

The evening walk along the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, organised by British Waterways, will be lead by ecologist and bat specialist Paul Wilkinson on Tuesday, 28 September at Hopwood, near Bromsgrove (south of Birmingham) from 6.30pm.

As well as relishing the company of others in this dramatic flying and swirling parade, the autumnal ‘bat fest’ also marks a time when they’re desperately building up fat reserves before their hibernation, and so can be seen for long periods during the evening. As the nights draw in this provides wildlife lovers with just the right occasion to enjoy a fascinating twilight world and get closer to these wonderful creatures.

Ultrasonic microphones

The walk will include a demonstration of special detectors containing ultrasonic microphones that allow humans to hear the sounds that bats make. Paul will also advise on how we can all help bats closer to home.

The walk is free of charge, with the opportunity to donate to the Bat Conservation Trust if you wish. Children are welcome, accompanied by an adult, and walking shoes/warm clothing is advised. The only other things you need are your eyes and ears.

Paul Wilkinson said: “Bats are a protected species and classed as a national priority for conservation because of their loss of habitat. Luckily, canals and rivers help bats a great deal – they not only provide them with the water they need to rehydrate, they also attract midges and other flying insects which provide a ready feast. This makes our waterways great places to observe bats, which walkers will hopefully discover on Tuesday as the bats enjoy their annual autumnal gathering.”

As places are limited, please book in advance by calling 01827 252000 and asking for Paul Wilkinson or email paul.wilkinson@britishwaterways.co.uk.

via Watch a bat swarm on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal | News | Waterscape.