A Claylands to be proud of…
Group/Individual:
Location: South Norfolk
Studies have calculated that the South Norfolk Claylands area holds nearly three times the national average desnisty of ponds. In February 2004 Norfolk Wildlife Services (the consultancy arm of Norfolk Wildlife Trust) produced a report on behalf of the South Norfolk Claylands Project Partners on the state of ponds within five south Norfolk parishes. The report concentrated on assessing the general health of ponds within the parishes and paid particular regard to their suitability for holding populations of great crested newts.
The communities and landowners within the parishes were actively encouraged to assist with the survey by direct visits and by recruiting local volunteers to act as coordinators for their area
Publicity was gained by placing adverts in parish magazines, by distributing leaflets door to door and by dirct contact with local people, such as walking groups. Training sessions were held and liaison with local landowners allowed access to targeted survey areas.
A total of 200 ponds were surveyed and over two thirds of these were found to be in good or excellent condition for wildlife. Management action plans were developed to provide instruction for the improvement of the ponds in ‘average’ or’poor’ condition and to create a framework for ongoing maintenance and improvement.