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ADAS Consulting Ltd

A directory of activity to reduce diffuse water pollution from agriculture in priority catchments FINAL Revised 27/05/05 R. Humphrey, C. Procter, P. Kay and M. Shepherd

ADAS Gleadthorpe Meden Vale Mansfield Nottingham NG20 9PF

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Executive Summary

The intensification of agricultural production over recent decades has been characterised by increasing inputs, including agrochemicals such as fertilisers and pesticides. A consequence of this has been the movement of these chemicals to surface water bodies in runoff. Diffuse sources are becoming increasingly dominant in terms of environmental effects as point sources, such as sewage discharges, are being better managed to reduce pollution. Subsequent impacts of diffuse pollution have been investigated, and effects on ecological status have been observed in some instances. For example, English Nature has recently identified105 conservation sites throughout England that they assessed as being degraded by receiving pollutants from agriculture.

Combating diffuse pollution from agriculture is one of Defra’s key priorities and actions will be necessary to meet the demands of the Water Framework Directive, which requires that ‘good ecological quality’ be achieved in water bodies. To address diffuse pollution, Defra has launched it’s Catchment Sensitive Farming initiative. The project reported here is in support of this initiative. The aim was to establish what support activities are in place in selected catchments to engage with land managers with the aim of finding solutions to diffuse pollution. Examples include farmer groups and demonstration projects. The emphasis is on the engagement process, rather than the technical measures to decrease pollution. Investigations focused on the 105 priority sites identified by English Nature.

Many farmers had been involved in engagement processes at the time their particular catchment was designated as a conservation site. In most cases, however, any involvement in decision making has since lapsed. The general impression gained during research for this report is that even in catchments where there is a lot of DWPA activity taking place, it is often disparate. There may be a number of active organisations working with farmers, but they are not necessarily aware that each other exists. A cohesive, catchment-wide, approach is desirable if we are to meet future targets for management of diffuse pollution issues.

Whilst some areas of the country had a fairly extensive amount of DWPA activity, for example Northumberland in the North East, Herefordshire in the West Midlands and the South West in general, other areas had virtually none at all, for example many parts of the Eastern region. However, it is important to note that the investigation was pinpointed specifically at the 105 individual priority sites (as identified by English Nature). Many sites are small and it is possible that activity would not be initiated for these alone, as they may not attract so much interest and resources, although wider catchment initiatives may result in benefits for them. In some cases the sites were particularly small and hence have been grouped together.

In carrying out this work, it has become evident that co-ordination of activities to reduce DWPA is very limited. Whilst every effort has been made to identify all the activity that is taking place, it should be stressed that this lack of co-ordination may mean that some projects have been missed. It is hoped that the body of knowledge on DWPA activity will continue to grow as more projects relevant to Catchment Sensitive Farming begin. The development of the CSF website in support of this research will enable any projects that have not been identified, and those starting up, to be registered. The website will provide a dynamic resource to be used both to inform policy decisions and facilitate better communication between key stakeholder groups. A summary of those projects identified in the current study is provided below.

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A summary of DWPA activity in priority catchments

Region County Site name Level of activity

Key stakeholders Example projects

North East Northumbria Tweed Catchment Rivers High FWAG, EA, NNTA, Northumbrian Rivers Project, River Coquet & Coquet Valley Woodlands Medium Tweed Forum, ADAS, Coquet Catchment Pesticides Lindisfarne Low Northumbrian Water Study, EA LINK Teesmouth & Cleveland Coast Medium Yorkshire Hornsea Mere Low EN, EA, FWAG Lower Derwent Project River Derwent Low Yorkshire Wildlife Trust North West Cumbria Bassenthwaite Lake Medium LDSWP, CEH, EA, EN, Biglands Bog Low FBA, LDNPA, NT, FC, Cliburn Moss N/A RDS, RSPB Cumwhitton Moss N/A Moorthwaite Moss N/A Newton Reigny Moss N/A River Derwent & Tributaries Medium Temple Sowerby Moss Low Lancashire Hawes Water Low EA, FWAG, MBC Mersey Basin Campaign Leighton Moss Low ICREW East Midlands Derbyshire Cressbrook Dale Medium EN, FWAG, PDNPA, EA Vision Project Dove Valley & Biggin Dale Low

Lathkill Dale Low

Leicestershire Blackbrook Reservoir Low EA, EN, FWAG, NFU,

Bradgate Park & Cropston Reservoir Low Leicestershire & Rutland

Buddon Wood & Swithland Reservoir Low Wildlife Trust

River Eye High

River Mease High

Lincolnshire Hatfield Chase Ditches Medium FWAG, NFU,

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust West Midlands Herefordshire River Lugg High FWAG, EN, ADAS, PSYCHIC, Wye Grazers Project, River Wye High Reading University, WYECARE River Teme Low CEH, EA, NFU Herefordshire Wildlife Trust Shropshire Clarepool Moss Low EA, EN NUPHAR Fenemere Low

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Fenn’s, Whixall, Bettisfield, Wem & Low Marton Pool N/A Sweat Mere & Crose Mere Low Staffordshire Aqualate Mere N/A EA, EN NUPHAR Betley Mere N/A Black Firs & Cranberry Bog N/A Cop Mere N/A

Warwickshire Birches Barn Meadow N/A EN

River Blythe Low East Bedfordshire Flitwick Moor Medium BWT, GT, BCV Cambridge Ouse Washes Medium EA, EN, Cam Forum, Cam Sustainable Farming NFU, RDS, BAWAG Project Essex Abberton Reservoir Low Essex Wildlife Trust, Blackwater Estuary Low Stour & Orwell Estuaries Colne Estuary N/A Management Group, EN Crouch & Roach Estuaries N/A Hamford Water N/A Hanningfield Reservoir N/A Stour Estuary N/A Hunsdon Mead Low Norfolk Muckfleet Catchment Low EA, EN, NFU, RDS, River Ant Catchment Low BAWAG, Norfolk River Bure Catchment High Wildlife Trust River Thurne catchment Low River Waveney catchment High River Wensum catchment High River Yare Catchment High Suffolk Alde-Ore Estuary N/A Suffolk Estuaries Deben Initiative, Little Ouse Bamby Broad Low Management Group, Headwaters Project Benacre to Eastern Bavents N/A RSPB, FWAG, Bio Blo’ Norton & Thelnetham Fen Low Norton Fen Conservation Chippenham Fen Low Group Deben Estuary Low Halvergate Marshes Low Minsmere-Walberswick Heaths and N/A

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Orwell Estuary Medium Redgrave & Lopham Fens Low Sprat’s Water & Marshes N/A Water End Swallow Holes N/A Weston Fen N/A South East Kent River Beult Medium EA, EN, FWAG Promoting Good Farm Practice Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge marshes N/A The Swale N/A Walland Marsh N/A Sussex Chichester Harbour Medium FWAG, EA, NFU WILDCRU Combe Haven Low Oxford University Pevensey Levels Low Oxon, Berks, Cothill Fen N/A FWAG, EA, ADAS, NFU, LANDCARE Wilts & Hants River Avon System High Wildlife Trusts, PSYCHIC River Itchen High Hampshire County, LANDWISE River Kennet High Wessex Water Wessex Water Biodiversity River Lambourn Medium River Test High River Till Medium Stanford End Mill & River Loddon Low South West Somerset Bridgwater Bay (Pawlett Hams) Low North Devon & Somerset North Somerset Levels & Moors North Somerset Moors Medium Coastal Group, RSPB, Project Somerset Levels & Moors High FWAG, Avon Wildlife Trust, NT Devon Erme Estuary Medium Westcountry Rivers Trust Life into Landscape Exe Estuary Medium FWAG Slapton Cycleau Project River Axe Medium Axe & Char Enhancement Salombe to Kingsbridge Estuary Low Project Slapton Ley Medium Stover Park N/A Yealm Estuary N/A Dorset Chesil and The Fleet Medium FWAG, EA, EN Fleet Hinterland Project Frome St Quintin Low LOCAR Poole Harbour N/A Rempstone Heaths N/A

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River Frome Medium Studland & Godlingston Heaths Low Toller Porcorum N/A Cornwall Fal & Helford High Westcountry Rivers Trust Cornwall Rivers Trust Loe Pool Medium Cornwall Rivers Trust Fal & Helford Cycleau Project River Camel Medium FWAG, National Trust Tamar-Tavy Estuary Medium NA: No DWPA activity

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Contents

1 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................ 8

2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES.................................................................................................. 10

3 METHODOLOGY............................................................................................................. 11

3.1 GENERAL APPROACH .................................................................................................... 11

3.2 DETAILED METHODOLOGY ........................................................................................... 11

3.2.1 Stage 1 – Characterisation of location, land-use and hydrology .......................... 11

3.2.2 Stage 2 – Identification of farmer activity and conservation projects................... 11

4 CHARACTERISATION OF CATCHMENTS............................................................... 13

4.1 THE NORTH EAST REGION ............................................................................................ 13

4.1.1 Northumbria .......................................................................................................... 13

4.1.2 Yorkshire................................................................................................................ 18

4.2 THE NORTH WEST......................................................................................................... 20

4.2.1 Cumbria ................................................................................................................. 20

4.2.2 Lancashire ............................................................................................................. 22

4.3 EAST MIDLANDS ........................................................................................................... 24

4.3.1 Derbyshire ............................................................................................................. 24

4.3.2 Leicestershire......................................................................................................... 26

4.3.3 Lincolnshire ........................................................................................................... 29

4.4 WEST MIDLANDS .......................................................................................................... 30

4.4.1 Hereford & Worcester ........................................................................................... 30

4.4.2 Shropshire.............................................................................................................. 33

4.4.3 Staffordshire .......................................................................................................... 36

4.4.4 Warwickshire ......................................................................................................... 38

4.5 EAST REGION ................................................................................................................ 40

4.5.1 Bedfordshire .......................................................................................................... 40

4.5.2 Cambridgeshire ..................................................................................................... 41

4.5.3 Essex ...................................................................................................................... 42

4.5.4 Norfolk ................................................................................................................... 46

4.5.5 Suffolk .................................................................................................................... 49

4.6 THE SOUTH EAST .......................................................................................................... 55

4.6.1 Kent........................................................................................................................ 55

4.6.2 Sussex..................................................................................................................... 57

4.6.3 Hampshire and Wiltshire....................................................................................... 59

4.6.4 Berkshire and Oxfordshire .................................................................................... 62

4.7 SOUTH WEST REGION ................................................................................................... 65

4.7.1 Somerset................................................................................................................. 65

4.7.2 Devon..................................................................................................................... 68

4.7.3 Dorset .................................................................................................................... 72

4.7.4 Cornwall ................................................................................................................ 76

5 REFERENCES................................................................................................................... 80

APPENDICES - GRAPHICAL PRESENTATION OF CATCHMENT LAND USE AND

RUNOFF GENERATION........................................................................................................ 81

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List of acronyms

AOD Above Ordnance Datum

COGAP Code of Good Agricultural Practice

cSAC candidate Special Area of Conservation

CSS Countryside Stewardship Scheme

DWPA Diffuse Water Pollution from Agriculture

EA Environment Agency

ELS Entry Level Scheme (agri-environment scheme)

EN English Nature

FWAG Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group

HLS Higher Level Scheme (agri-environment scheme)

LFA Less Favoured Area

NNR National Nature Reserve

NVZ Nitrate Vulnerable Zone

Ramsar Site Wetland of international importance (Ramsar Convention, Iran 1971)

SAC Special Area of Conservation

SPA Special Protected Area

SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest

STWs Sewage Treatment Works

TP Total Phosphorus

UK-ADAPT UK Agricultural Diffuse Aquatic Pollution Toolkit

VI Voluntary Initiative (Best management for pesticides)

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1 Introduction

Farming is seen as a major source of diffuse pollution of water bodies by nutrients, pesticides, veterinary medicines and organic materials, including pathogens. Furthermore, modern farming methods have been associated with increased sediment loads in some rivers due to inappropriate soil management. This occurs particularly when soils are compacted by heavy machinery or left bare and exposed to rainfall (Environment Agency, 2004). One impact of this increased sediment loading has been to reduce the quality of fish spawning grounds. The influence of diffuse water pollution from agriculture (DWPA) has become increasingly important because point source pollution has been reduced significantly through regulation and considerable investment by water companies. The current policy emphasis is, thus, changing in order to tackle diffuse pollution. Increasing food production to achieve self-sufficiency is no longer as pressing an issue as it has been over the past half century. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is therefore now being used as a vehicle to combat the environmental problems associated with modern agriculture. Farmers will no longer be rewarded for production alone but will have to meet a number of demands, termed ‘cross-compliance’, to receive subsidy payments. Furthermore the Entry Level (ELS) and Higher Level (HLS) Schemes will encourage farmers to use environmentally sound practices.

Combating diffuse pollution is one of Defra’s priorities and is a requirement of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). A particularly important initiative is Defra’s Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) project. As part of the Government’s ongoing work on diffuse pollution, English Nature has identified 105 sites throughout England where it has been concluded that DWPA is affecting important nature conservation sites (English Nature, 2003) (Figure 1). Defra has, therefore, commissioned ADAS to carry out this study which will identify activity, where it exists, aimed at combating diffuse pollution from agriculture for all 105 sites. Here, ‘activity’ means methods for engaging with land managers, rather than the technical methods of decreasing pollutant losses to water. Therefore, the activity may include:

• farmer group actions

• voluntary initiatives

• conservation projects.

The results of the study will inform Defra of activity currently taking place on the ground and will help to formulate actions to reduce the risks of diffuse water pollution from agriculture. It should be emphasised that whilst the current project has assessed activity to reduce DWPA in catchments where the 105 sites are located, Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) is about reduction of DWPA in all river catchments.

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Figure 1. Priority catchments where conservation sites are at risk from diffuse water pollution from agriculture (English Nature, 2003).

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2 Aim and objectives

The overall aim of this project was to characterise the catchment areas of the 105 sites identified by English Nature in terms of activity to combat diffuse water pollution from agriculture.

The specific objectives were:

1. Identify the 105 sites from English Nature (2003).

2. Map the locations of these catchments and their agricultural land-use and hydrology.

3. Identify all farmer group and conservation activities taking place in the catchments, where possible.

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3 Methodology

3.1 General Approach

The 105 sites throughout England, categorised by English Nature as conservation sites at risk from DWPA, were identified and grouped into areas closely corresponding to river catchments (English Nature, 2003). They represent a range of agricultural land-uses and river types, spatially distributed throughout England (Figure 1). There is variation in the level of DWPA risk across the sites (EN, 2003) and it was therefore anticipated that voluntary farmer action group activity and conservation projects taking place in the study areas would also be variable. Catchments were characterised in terms of location within England, agricultural land-use and river type. The level of activity to reduce DWPA in each area was then identified.

3.2 Detailed Methodology

The project was split into two stages:

3.2.1 Stage 1 – Characterisation of location, land-use and hydrology

The 105 locations where nature conservation sites have been deemed to be at risk from DWPA were first identified from English Nature (2003). These were characterised using the ADAS 2000 Landcover dataset and the MAGPIE decision support system (Lord and Anthony, 2000). Land-use was described as percentage arable land and grassland. General catchment hydrology was classified using effective rainfall to indicate whether a catchment was baseflow dominated or had a higher input from surface and near-surface runoff. River type will correlate strongly with the hydrological classification. For instance, those catchments with the highest amount of effective rainfall were likely to be upland catchments, where the potential for infiltration is severely limited by the impermeable underlying geology. Those with very low effective rainfall are likely to be highly permeable lowland catchments, such as the chalk streams of southern England, where rivers are baseflow dominated.

3.2.2 Stage 2 – Identification of farmer activity and conservation projects

ADAS’ regional co-ordinators, who have extensive knowledge of particular river catchments, provided details of farmer action groups and any other agricultural projects taking place in the selected study areas. These included projects with aims such as combating diffuse pollution, conservation, flood alleviation and drought management. They were also able to confirm the physical attributes of the study areas. Other organisations were contacted and, in many cases, provided valuable information on farmer group activity and other projects in the study areas. These included the National Farmers Union (NFU), Rivers Trusts, national and regional staff at the Environment Agency (EA), the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) and the Wildlife Trusts. The wide range of stakeholders consulted maximised the chance of identifying all of the existing initiatives.

In many cases, no specific DWPA activity was identified, but information was provided on general environmental activity, farm advisory programmes or local stakeholder groups. In order to take advantage of existing local groups within the catchment, this information was documented in the report, as it can potentially be used to help combat DWPA in the future.

Activity was therefore split into the following categories, for ease of reference within the report:

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• General environmental activity

• General farm advice

• Agri-environment schemes

• DWPA Projects

• Stakeholder groups

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4 Characterisation of catchments

DWPA activity within the 105 priority catchments is described within this section. The reasons as to why each site is of ecological importance are described, including problems of DWPA that have been identified, geographical location, geology, topography, hydrology and general farming characteristics. Maps are provided in Appendix 1 showing percentage arable and grassland as well as effective rainfall. Details of farmer group activity and other projects are provided, as well as contact details for those organisations and individuals who contributed to the information gathered. Contact details have not been provided for those who were not able to provide significant information. The sites have been divided into regions and counties and the projects grouped by type of activity.

It should be noted, however, that information on activity to address DWPA is disparate and in many cases not widely distributed throughout the organisations and individuals with an interest in this area of work. Thus, it is possible that all such activities may not have been identified over the limited time-scale of the current project. However, the final component of the project will be the establishment of a web site, linked to the UK-ADAPT website. This will enable additional initiatives to be registered by those involved. In most cases, reasons for this lack of activity were not forthcoming. In some places however, a lack of funding was identified as the cause.

4.1 The North East Region Priority catchments have been identified throughout Northumbria and Yorkshire.

4.1.1 Northumbria

Four priority catchments have been identified in Northumbria, including two rivers and two coastal areas.

TWEED CATCHMENT RIVERS

Catchment characterisation

Conservation value and DWPA

The Tweed catchment includes the Till catchment SSSI and the Lower Tweed and Whiteladder SSSI, in addition to the River Tweed cSAC. Features at risk include salmon, British lamprey, otter and water-crowfoot species. The Tweed estuary was highlighted by EN as having the potential to be designated as eutrophic under the Nitrates Directive and many stretches of the river are considered to be in unfavourable condition. Excessive grazing, exposed arable fields and land drainage have all been identified as contributing factors (EN, 2003).

Land-use

The catchment has a range of farming types, from hill farming in the uplands (more than 500m a.o.d.) to cultivation of irrigated crops in the more productive lowlands. The area to the north of the catchment contains extensive arable land whereas the southern part of the basin, in the Cheviot Hills, is predominantly grassland. Land-use in the east is more mixed.

Hydrology

Much of the area’s geology is made up of impermeable igneous rocks (granite and andesites), indicating that the rivers are likely to respond rapidly to precipitation.

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Moreover, impermeable till is present in some areas. Permeable sedimentary rocks are also present however, in the form of limestone and sandstone as well as some shale. Some of the rock is also overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace deposits or peat (Jarvis et al., 1984). Thus, effective rainfall is higher in the Cheviots. In the lowlands this falls to between 160 and 325 mm.

Conservation activity in the catchment to reduce DWPA

Activities in the catchment aimed at reducing the impacts of DWPA are relatively extensive.

General Environmental Activity

• Excessive water abstraction has been identified as a major issue in the catchment. FWAG and English Nature carried out a project in 2002 to determine exact levels of water abstraction used for growing potatoes and carrots. A conservation plan was produced.

• The EA carried out an ecological monitoring programme in 2003 to investigate high measured values for BOD and nutrients. The EA considers the Till to be a priority catchment for future conservation actions.

Agri-environment schemes.

• Farmers have been encouraged to apply for the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) and English Nature’s Wildlife Enhancement Scheme in the past and a large number of CSS agreements are in operation, particularly in the Till catchment. These include a wide range of prescriptions, such as 6m margins, arable options, pasture protection on fields adjacent to the SSSI and grip blocking.

DWPA projects

• The EU and MAFF (now Defra) funded Northumbrian Rivers project was completed in 2001, but has formed a significant part of recent DWPA activity in the Tweed catchment. The project was set up as a rural partnership, aiming to help farmers and landowners manage rivers and riparian areas. The longer-term aim was subsequently for the local rural economy to be enhanced through tourism and leisure activities such as fishing. Activities included planting trees and shrubs, reducing grazing, helping to increase otter populations by creating artificial habitats and encouraging the passage of fish across man-made structures. The project covered several large river systems including the Tyne, Coquet and Aln, and involved a multitude of local stakeholder organisations.

Stakeholder Groups

• The North Northumberland Agricultural Training Association (NNATA) was established in 1974 and currently has over 80 members. NNATA’s aim is to provide affordable local training for farmers and their employees in North Northumberland on all aspects of farming and land management. The association is run by an elected committee consisting of local farmers and is self-supporting via annual membership fees. Various training courses are run throughout the year, including environmental and conservation days in conjunction with FWAG. Recent and planned courses include hedge laying, hedge and tree planting, pond creation and management, arable options and field margins in the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, new agri-environment schemes and waste management.

• A number of farmers are currently beginning to think about how they might best work together. One farm is in a position to be developed further as a demonstration unit and has obtained funding from the English Rural Development Programme to develop an environmental education centre on the farm.

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• There are several meat marketing groups in the area.

• The Tweed Forum was created in 1991 as a vehicle for sharing ideas and information about the appropriate use and management of the Tweed’s resources. It is a non-profit making company with charitable status and registered as an Environmental Body under the Landfill Tax regulations. The Forum’s main objective is ‘to promote the wise and sustainable use of the whole of the Tweed catchment through holistic and integrated management and planning’. Twenty-nine organisations are currently represented in the Tweed Forum, including local councils, government agencies and environmental and recreational groups. The forum operates throughout the entire 500km2 catchment, crossing the English and Scottish border and including major tributaries such as the Till. The forum has carried out a significant amount of work to develop integrated management in the Tweed catchment on both sides of the border and has a catchment management strategy in place as well as specific projects. Recent examples include ‘European Rivers Network’, ‘Catchment Management Planning’, ‘Tweed Rivers Heritage Project’ and ‘Tweed Invasives Project’.

RIVER COQUET AND COQUET VALLEY WOODLANDS

Catchment Characterisation


The River Coquet is a river system of high conservation and ecological value. The river itself is designated a SSSI, plus there are ten other SSSIs within the wider catchment. Features at risk include salmon, lamprey, otter and water crowfoot species. Water quality data has shown that whilst nutrient objectives are usually met, BOD has increased substantially over the last ten years (EN, 2003). Pesticide use is also an issue within the catchment, with high levels of isoproturon (IPU) being detected by Northumbrian Water and the EA in 2002.

Land-use The Coquet catchment is predominantly rural, with extensive beef and sheep farming in the upper catchment and some dairy lower down near Northumbrian Water’s Warkworth treatment works.

Hydrology The main geology of the area is carboniferous limestones, shales and sandstones, with effective rainfall typically being less than 325mm p.a.


General Farm Advice

• The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) has done some small scale work on the Coquet and Wansbeck for the EA and EN.

Agri-environment schemes

• Farmers in the area have been encouraged to apply for the Countryside Stewardship Scheme as well as EN’s Wildlife Enhancement scheme. The EA has also extended its ecological monitoring programme within the wider Till/Tweed catchment (EN, 2003).

DWPA Projects

• High levels of the herbicide, isoproturon (IPU), led to Northumbrian Water and the EA contracting ADAS to characterise the catchment in terms of DWPA risk from pesticides and to devise a strategy to reduce this risk. The project, ‘Coquet

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Catchment Pesticides Study’, ran for six months and included analysis of water quality data and a Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) modelling exercise to map areas most at risk. Farm visits and meetings with agronomists were then held to discuss suitable mitigation methods, such as those included in Codes of Good Agricultural Practise (MAFF, 1998) and the Voluntary Initiative. Particular attention was paid to drainage remediation, reviewing pesticide handling areas, high-risk fields and soil management. The recommendations are currently being considered by Northumbrian Water, the responsible water company, and a major landowner within the catchment. In the meantime, a further year’s work has been commissioned for ADAS to carry out a pesticide awareness campaign within the catchment. Farmer meetings are being held to discuss issues raised in the previous project report.

LINDISFARNE



The coastal waters around Lindisfarne have been designated a NNR, SSSI and SPA. The site is also within the Berwickshire and North Northumberland Coast SSSI, cSAC and SPA. Features at risk include extensive beds of eelgrass, overwintering waterfowl and intertidal mudflats and sandflats. There has been a reduction in the availability of mudflats for feeding birds and a smothering of eelgrass due to the excessive growth of Enteromorpha. Lindisfarne NNR was designated as a polluted water under the Nitrates Directive in 2001, with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels substantially elevated compared to adjacent sea water and the majority of recent water samples exceeding the criteria for eutrophic waters. A large proportion (95%) of the N and P loadings are from diffuse sources via feeder catchments, such as the Tweed (EN, 2003).

Land use

Agricultural land use in the Lindisfarne area is predominately arable (60-100% of land cover over much of the area). This is evenly distributed across the catchment, as is the relatively small area of pasture.

Hydrology

The geology of Lindisfarne comprises carboniferous limestones, shales and sandstones, overlain by till, with effective rainfall being less than 325mm p.a. This is distributed evenly across the catchment.



• The EA is currently reviewing discharge consents.

• A precautionary approach has been adopted to any new developments in the area and P stripping at STWs is being considered (EN, 2003).

General Farm Advice

• The EA maintains regular contact with farmers in the catchment via FWAG.

• Farmers are being encouraged to apply for agri-environment schemes.

DWPA Projects

• No activity has been identified that specifically targets DWPA at Lindisfarne. However, the site will be influenced by mitigation measures employed within the

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Tweed catchment, including those of the Northumberland Rivers Project and the Northumberland Farmers Training Association.

TEESMOUTH AND CLEVELAND COAST



The coastal waters around Teesmouth and the Cleveland Coast have been designated as a SPA and Ramsar site. The area also falls within the Durham coast SSSI and cSAC. Features at risk are over-wintering waterfowl, as excessive growth of Enteromorpha has led to a reduction in their mudflat habitats. Summer loadings of nitrogen (N) have been recorded by the EA of 3000kg/day in the River Tees and it is estimated that 50% of this is from agricultural sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use varies considerably in the catchment. The area close to the coast has the largest proportion of arable farming and this ranges between 40-70% of land cover. The majority of the catchment is dominated (80-100% of land cover) by livestock production.

Hydrology

Runoff production is relatively small in the lowland areas to the east of the catchment, at less than 325mm p.a. This increases moving westwards into the upland areas, where effective rainfall rises to over 800mm.



• Nutrient removal is carried out at local STWs and the area has been designated a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ). Further nutrient removal is likely to be carried out in the future (EN, 2003).

• The site is currently undergoing a strategic management review by the EA, focusing on flooding issues.

General Farm Advice

• FWAG has done some small-scale work on the Teesmouth and Cleveland coast and uptake of the ELS and HLS schemes has been encouraged.

DWPA Projects

• There is an EA LINK project running in conjunction with EN focusing on industry and nature conservation. ICI and the Cleveland Wildlife Trust are partners in this initiative, which also involves the Industry and Nature Conservation Association (INCA).

Stakeholder Groups

• Various wildlife groups are active within the area and the EA would welcome the opportunity to work with more ‘on the ground’ groups to help tackle diffuse pollution.

• Tees-Forest, a community forest organisation, is active within the area. The Tees Forest partnership is an initiative of the Countryside Agency and the Forestry Commission in response to a national need to diversify land use. Over the next forty years, the partnership aims to improve the local countryside by creating a wooded landscape for work, wildlife, recreation and education.

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Contacts for Northumbria

Mr Angus Collingwood-Cameron, ADAS Central Account Management. Tel: 01668 217034, email: [email protected]

Mr George Dodds, FWAG, Northumberland Office, 15 Glendale Business Park, Haugh Head, Wooler, Northumberland, NE71 6QP. Tel: 01668 283848, email: [email protected]

Northumbrian Rivers Project. Tel: 01669 621701.

Mr Philip Bull, ADAS Sustainable Land Management. Tel: 01434 672190, email: [email protected]

Mr Rob Brotherton, Principal Officer – Agriculture, Environment Agency, North-East Region, Regional Strategic Unit, Tyneside House, Skinnerburn Road, Newcastle Business Park, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE4 7AR. Tel: 0191 2034106, email: [email protected]

The Tweed Forum, Drygrange Steading, Melrose, Roxburghshire, TD6 9DJ. Tel: 01896 848271, email: [email protected].

Dr Jon Hillman, ADAS Gleadthorpe, Meden vale, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG20 9PF. Tel: 01623 844331, email: [email protected]

Mr Mike Leeky, English Nature, Stocksfield. Tel: 01661 845 500.

4.1.2 Yorkshire

Two priority catchments have been identified in Yorkshire, Hornsea Mere and the River Derwent.

HORNSEA MERE



Hornsea Mere is the largest freshwater lake in Yorkshire (120ha) and is shallow due to its glacial origin. Features at risk include reedswamp, fen and carr woodland in addition to an internationally important population of wintering wildfowl. The mere is eutrophic, with blue-green and other algal blooms that may affect bird and plant communities. High total phosphorus and orthophosphate levels have been recorded by the EA (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Holderness soil association makes for good arable land and is well suited to continuous cereal growing, with winter wheat and barley being the main crops, along with oilseed rape, turnips and grass (Jarvis et al., 1984). Consequently much of the Hornsea Mere area is arable.

Hydrology

The geology of the catchment is chalky till (boulder clay) overlain by easily erodible glacio-fluvial drift (Jarvis et al., 1984). Effective rainfall is typically less than 325mm p.a.


General Farm Advice

• There is ongoing liaison with the land-owning estate to promote good farming practice, however, funds are needed to more actively encourage uptake of practical

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mitigation measures. There has been good uptake of the CSS in some areas of the catchment (EN, 2003).

DWPA Projects

• The site is situated within an intensive agricultural catchment, however, a study by FWAG in 2002 found that farming practice was good and DWPA was not a major threat to wildlife here (although the site is still considered vulnerable). Point source P inputs have been identified from septic tanks. There is currently no known activity specifically targeting DWPA.

Stakeholder Groups

• Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has a ‘Water for Wildlife’ project officer working in East Yorkshire. The Trust is planning a project for wetland mammals and their habitats that may include measures that will help with diffuse pollution, soil erosion and habitat loss.

YORKSHIRE DERWENT



The River Derwent has been designated a SSSI and cSAC for its fish and macrophyte communities, with the water crowfoot species under particular threat due to siltation from flood events. Phosphorus pollution has been identified as a problem and phosphorus removal at the major STWs is unlikely to bring about sufficient reductions (EN, 2003), indicating that DWPA plays a significant role.

Land-use

The Yorkshire Derwent is a relatively large catchment situated in North Yorkshire. Much of the catchment is low lying (less than 50m a.o.d.), particularly the Vale of Pickering and the Vale of York. The Yorkshire Wolds to the south of the river and, particularly, the North York Moors to the north rise to higher elevations however. Farming in the catchment is, thus, fairly mixed, although arable cropping dominates. Areas of irrigated crops are reasonably extensive as well as cereals. Agriculture in the North York Moors is heavily dominated by livestock farming.

Hydrology

Geology is predominantly permeable limestones and sandstones. Drift is either absent or comprises peat or glaciolacustrine clay (Jarvis et al., 1984). Runoff generation is therefore lower than in many of the other study areas, with effective rainfall being less than 325mm p.a. over much of the catchment. This doubles in the far north, however, in the North York Moors.


Limited activity has been identified in the catchment that is aiming specifically to address DWPA. Other initiatives are ongoing though:


• The EA has investigated suspended solids levels in the catchment and may carry out work in the future to attempt to reduce these during flood events. English Nature is also interested in pursuing remediation of diffuse pollution in the catchment.

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DWPA Projects

• The Lower Derwent Project, involving the EA and EN, has looked at the effects of water abstraction for drinking purposes on the river’s ecology. Modelling work for point and diffuse source pollution has been undertaken, and phosphorus and sediment in particular have been identified as targets for mitigation.

• The EA has done some work linking to this that has modelled diffuse and point source pollution, relating to the Habitats Directive Review of Consents.

• A number of partnership projects are being carried out on the North York Moors and in the Vale of Pickering.

North East Summary

The level of activity aimed at reducing DWPA in the North East, particularly in the Northumbria region, is relatively high when compared with many areas of the country. A number of initiatives have been ongoing for some years now, particularly in the River Tweed catchment. These involve a wide range of stakeholders, including the EA, EN, wildlife trusts, advisory groups and industry.

Contacts for Yorkshire

Dr Liz Chalk, Technical Specialist (Biodiversity), Environment Agency, Coverdale House, Aviator Court, Amy Johnson Way, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4GZ. Tel: 01904 822674, email: [email protected].

Denice Coverdale, English Nature (York office). Email: [email protected]

Robert Masheder, Conservation Officer, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. Tel: 01904 659570, email: [email protected].

Sally Edwards, Biodiversity Technical Officer (Habitats Directive), Environment Agency. Email: [email protected].

Martin Phillips, Farm Conservation Advisor, FWAG. Tel: 01904 435500, email: [email protected].

4.2 The North West Priority catchments have been identified in the counties of Cumbria and Lancashire.

4.2.1 Cumbria

Seven priority catchments have been identified in Cumbria, including a river system, a lake and several mire habitats.

CUMBRIAN DERWENT AND BASSENTHWAITE LAKE



The Cumbrian Derwent catchment contains the Bassenthwaite SSSI, the River Derwent and Bassenthwaite Lake cSAC and Bassenthwaite National Nature Reserve (NNR). Approximately 80% of Bassenthwaite Lake’s hydraulic loading is provided by the River Derwent.

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Eutrophication due to phosphorus (P) concentrations and sediment deposition in Bassenthwaite Lake have been identified as the major problems in the catchment. These have been attributed to agricultural land-use changes. Phosphorus stripping at the Keswick STW has reduced the P loading from this source to 21% so that agriculture is now the main source of P, accounting for 52% of inputs. Septic tanks account for a further 18%. There is visual evidence of overgrazing in much of the catchment which is likely to contribute to river sediment loads (EN, 2003).

Land-use

The Cumbrian Derwent represents a predominantly upland area, with land rising to over 500m a.o.d. This catchment therefore represents a Less Favoured Area (LFA). Land-use comprises upland moor, rough grazing, forestry and some improved pasture. Growth of combinable crops is minimal.

Hydrology

Geology in the catchment comprises mostly impermeable rocks, such as andesite and slate, as well as mudstones, whilst drift is largely absent (Jarvis et al., 1984). Runoff production in the catchment is very high, with effective rainfall being greater than 1465mm across approximately 50% of the area. This does however decrease towards the north-west in the more lowland areas.


DWPA Projects

• Work is taking place on nutrient and sediment dynamics in Bassenthwaite Lake, mostly carried out by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH) for the Lake District Still Waters Partnership. This work involves the EA, English Nature, the Freshwater Biological Association, the Lake District National Park Authority, the National Trust, the Forestry Commission and the Rural Development Service. The group is implementing the Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Programme (BLRP) which is aiming to promote best farming practice within the catchment. Work includes field nutrient surveys, whole farm plans and reduced stocking of upland areas. ESA funding is also being used to facilitate river corridor fencing and buffer strips. A number of demonstration farms are planned for the future.

• The Sustainable Rural Land Use Project (SRLUP) began in 2000 and was completed recently, funded by the EA and carried out by FWAG. The project covered a number of catchments in the North West region, including Bassenthwaite Lake. Sixty farm visits took place across the region, with Whole Farm Plans being produced by FWAG and recommendations for environmental improvements made. Farmers were also encouraged to apply for agri-environment schemes such as the CSS.

• The lake is also included in the EA’s NUPHAR project, which aims to develop a risk assessment methodology for determining nutrient impacts in freshwaters.

BIGLANDS BOG



Features at risk in this mire habitat include tall fen, marshy grassland, open water and ombrotrophic bog. Species poor phalaris stands have replaced previously diverse herbaceous communities and the river systems feeding into the bog are known to be eutrophic. High nutrient loadings are attributed to high levels of fertiliser and slurry

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application on farmland within the catchment, septic tanks and Little Bampton STW (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use around Biglands Bog is predominantly grassland with some arable.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the area is 326-488mm p.a.



• There is ongoing liaison between regulatory authorities and landowners within the catchment. In addition to this, AMP3 improvements have been proposed to Little Bampton STW.

• EN have recommended a Water Level Management Plan, the use of reedbed filters and buffer strips and the installation of a sediment trap (EN, 2003).

CLIBURN MOSS, CUMWHITTON MOSS, MOORTHWAITE MOSS, NEWTON REIGNY MOSS AND TEMPLE SOWERBY MOSS



No information was available on the characteristics of these particular sites (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Cliburn Moss has a low area of arable land (>30%) and is predominantly grassland. Similarly, Cumwhitton Moss and Moorthwaite Moss have 20-30% arable land cover, although they have a greater area of pasture at 60-100% of land cover. Newton Reigny Moss and Temple Sowerby Moss have very little arable land in their catchment areas (<10%), compared to 60-70% pasture land.

Hydrology

Between 325 and 500mm of runoff is generated at Cliburn Moss, Cumwhitton Moss, Moorthwaite Moss and Temple Sowerby Moss per annum. The Newton Reigny Moss and catchment has a slightly higher level of runoff generation at up to 650mm p.a.


No DWPA activity has been identified at any of the above sites. This is perhaps due to the fact that Cumbria has relatively few water monitoring points where nutrient levels are high, thus, diffuse agricultural pollution may be less important in this area. Pollution incidents do however occur from point sources, in particular slurry and silage liquors from the dairy industry.

Stakeholder Groups

• Voluntary Action Cumbria is a local organisation that runs several multi-stakeholder projects focusing on a wide range of rural issues. No specific DWPA activities have been identified, however, it is likely that this group could be used as a forum for the development of future projects in this area.

4.2.2 Lancashire

Two priority catchments have been identified in Lancashire, Hawes Water and Leighton Moss.

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HAWES WATER



Hawes Water SSSI is an oligotrophic lake that also falls within the Morecambe Bay Pavements cSAC. Aquatic plant surveys have shown a decline in the benthic Chara vegetation species and an increase in typically eutrophic species, including algal blooms. There has also been a significant increase in sedimentation. High total phosphorus (TP) levels have been identified at the lake inlet and this has been attributed to septic tank discharges and more widespread diffuse pollution at the catchment scale (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use around the catchment is predominantly grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is 489–681mm p.a.



• An EN study carried out in 2003 suggested that local farming practices should be addressed. In addition to this, regular water quality monitoring and paleoecological studies were recommended. The cesspit at Challam Hall was also highlighted as a potential nutrient source (EN, 2003). However, no specific activities in relation to DWPA have been identified.

LEIGHTON MOSS



Leighton Moss has been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site. The area is partially fed by water from Hawes Water. Features at risk within this lake habitat include extensive reedbeds which surround areas of open water and are of importance for a number of wetland birds. A decrease in the number of Bittern males has been linked to a reduction in their food source, due to declining water quality. Sediment samples have shown an increase in TP and some ditches adjacent to the lake have been found to be hypereutrophic, attributed to heavily fertilised land within the catchment. The lake is also at risk from sediment in water pools that can accumulate phosphorus and then re-release it, thus, acting as both a nutrient source and sink (EN, 2003).

Land Use

As with the adjacent catchment at Hawes Water, land use around the Leighton Moss catchment is predominantly grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is 489 – 681mm p.a.


Stakeholder Groups

• The RSPB are actively involved with the management of this site and have recently updated their water quality records.

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North West Summary

Although there is little DWPA activity specifically targeting priority sites in Cumbria, the North West region in general is the basis for a considerable number of DWPA initiatives. These include the Mersey Basin Campaign which initially focused on urban areas but is now addressing wider issues (including DWPA) through a series of River Valley Initiatives extending into Lancashire and including the Ribble catchment. The Ribble Valley Pilot project is acting as a test catchment for implementing measures to achieve the aims of the Water Framework Directive. The UK Centre for Economic and Environmental Development (UKCEED) undertook a project for Defra in 2003 examining stakeholder response to diffuse pollution issues. A series of focus groups were held in the North West (and elsewhere), these included 8-10 farmers in the Blackburn area. Two EU INTERREG projects are being carried out focusing on bathing water quality in coastal areas. One of these is the new ICREW project, based in Blackpool for the UK component. The project’s aim is to promote a sustainable, holistic environment, incorporating diffuse pollution issues and integrated catchment management for the WFD. The Eden Rivers Trust is also very active in parts of Cumbria, undertaking a number of catchment based diffuse pollution projects. FWAG has recently completed two DWPA projects in Cumbria, the Sustainable Rural Land Use Project (SRLUP) and a Slurry Project linked to the Farming Connect scheme. Both projects involved farmer visits and the provision of pollution advice. FWAG has also previously organised farm walks in Cumbria to demonstrate best practice in terms of mitigating diffuse pollution and work closely with the EA, however, they have no targeted initiatives within the priority sites.

Contacts for the North West

Brian Sanders, ADAS. Email: [email protected].

Amanda Wright, Research and Information Manager, Mersey basin Campaign. Tel: 0161 2428200. email: [email protected].

Terry Hindle, Environment Agency, Cumbria. Tel: 01768 215866, email: [email protected].

Ian Wrigley, Farm Conservation Advisor, FWAG, Cumbria. Email: [email protected].

Voluntary Action Cumbria. www.ruralcumbria.org.uk.

4.3 East Midlands Priority catchments have been identified in the counties of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire.

4.3.1 Derbyshire

Three river catchments have been identified as priorities in Derbyshire; Cressbrook Dale, Dove Valley and Biggin Dale and Lathkill Dale.

CRESSBROOK DALE



The river habitat of Cressbrook Dale has been designated a SSSI and NNR and also falls within the Peak District Dales cSAC. Its conservation status is largely due to the

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unique Derbyshire feather moss species. Despite recent intensification of agricultural land use within the catchment, there is little evidence of diffuse pollution (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the area is predominantly grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is approximately 500-800mm p.a. throughout the catchment.



• EN routinely monitor this site (EN, 2003).

General Farm Advice

• There is currently no specific FWAG activity in the Cressbrook area and the majority of farm advisory visits are undertaken by the Peak District National Park Authority.

DWPA Projects

• The Peak District National Park Authority is involved with the Vision Project, set up to address landscape scale issues between Cressbrook Dale, Calver and Ashford. Work focuses on best farming practice and includes the promotion of habitat management, minimal agrochemical use, livestock management and groundwater protection issues.

• Several years ago, Defra funded a free farm waste management plan scheme in the area.

DOVE VALLEY AND BIGGIN DALE



The river habitat of Dove Valley and Biggin Dale has been designated a SSSI for their fish species. Biggin Dale is also a NNR and the area falls within the Peak District Dales cSAC. The River Dove catchment comprises intensive agricultural activity and there is a history of pollution events. Diffuse nutrient sources are thought to have a significant impact on fish stocks (EN, 2003).

Land Use


Hydrology




• The EA and EN undertake routine water quality monitoring within the catchment. Dovedale is a popular tourist area and farmers may be more receptive to conservation schemes for this reason.

• The Peak District National Park Authority is working with the EA to address river bank erosion through better farm management. They are also looking at paper pulp applications to land that are affecting the aquifer.

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General Farm Advice

• FWAG has been actively involved with farmer activity in the Lower Dove Valley, providing an ongoing combination of conservation and resource management advice.


• The Peak District National Park Authority is involved with local uptake of CSS schemes and provides general farm advice.

LATHKILL DALE



The river system at Lathkill Dale has been designated a SSSI and NNR for its fish species and plant assemblages. The site also falls within the Peak District Dales cSAC. Evidence of pollution within the catchment is not extensive, however, an increase in P-dependent plants has been reported in seasonally dry sections of the riverbed, therefore, water flow may have a significant impact on water quality. A polluted cave system is also present upstream of the site (EN, 2003).

Land Use


Hydrology




• Lathkill Dale is being considered under the EA review of consents (EN, 2003).


• The Peak District National Park Authority are involved with local uptake of CSS and provide general farm advice, hence FWAG tend to be less involved in this area.

4.3.2 Leicestershire

Two rivers and three reservoirs have been identified as priority catchments in Leicestershire.

RIVERS EYE AND MEASE



The River Eye is designated a SSSI for its macrophyte assemblage, as well as the river’s fauna. Nutrient enrichment has been identified as affecting these communities. The River Mease is also a SSSI and a cSAC due to its vegetation and fish species as well as the presence of otters. There has been an increase in the frequency of flood events within the catchment and this has been linked to an increase in arable land use and hard standing areas on farms. Local farming activity has been identified as the likely source of diffuse nutrient inputs to the river (EN, 2003).

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Land-use

The catchment is relatively low lying (less than 100 m a.o.d.) (Ragg et al., 1984). Farming in the area is mixed, although the production of combinable crops dominates. Land use is relatively evenly distributed compared to many of the other selected study areas.

Hydrology

Solid geology in the catchment comprises mostly clays with some mudstones, overlain by chalky till (Ragg et al., 1984). Despite the impermeable nature of the geology, and the fact that much of the agricultural land is underdrained, effective rainfall is relatively low due to the catchment’s topography and is generally between 160-325 mm p.a.


Significant attempts have been made in the catchment to reduce DWPA.


• A major flood alleviation scheme has been implemented on the Eye at Melton Mowbray by the EA. In order to limit sediment pollution of the river, silt traps have been constructed in two places. These have been complemented by willow and hazel plantations established on farmland on the floodplain. The trees act as sediment filters when the river is in flood. Furthermore, a dam and control structure has been constructed on the Eye approximately 2 km upstream of Melton Mowbray. Water can be allowed to back-up and flood farmland. Farmers have received financial compensation for this.


• Whilst some farmers in the catchment are clearly aware of the effects of land-use on the particulate loading of runoff others are not. However, at least one farm in the Eye catchment has established 6m grass margins around arable fields to limit the transport of sediment from fields to the river.

• A number of farmers have also entered the Countryside Stewardship Scheme and have carried out activities such as reversion of arable land to pasture to reduce sediment transport to watercourses.

• In the Mease catchment, English Nature invited farmers to join their Wildlife Enhancement Scheme that was launched in 2001. Four farmers out of the 80 targeted joined the scheme and will implement measures including grassing of arable land and grazing with beef cattle, installation of 6m buffer strips around arable fields and ceasing fertiliser application to riparian land. English Nature has also been discussing the idea of creating a premium brand for their environmentally friendly reared livestock with 30 beef farmers. Farmers were assured in discussions with English Nature that the designation of the Mease as a SSSI would not affect their activities.

• Farmers in the Mease have been supported by FWAG in undertaking more environmentally friendly farming. Specific measures include the establishment of riverside margins, arable reversion on floodplains and responsible use of manures and slurries.

Stakeholder Groups

• A farmer group has previously been formed in the Eye catchment comprising of farmers owning riparian land. The aim of the group was to consult with navigation organisations with a view to stopping the development of navigation on the River Eye. Liaison is now carried out by the NFU Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor.

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BLACKBROOK RESERVOIR



Blackbrook reservoir is a lake habitat designated as a SSSI. Features at risk include mesotrophic aquatic macrophytes and white clawed crayfish. Phosphate levels in the lake are considered to be high and slurry pollution was noted during the Foot and Mouth crisis in 2001 (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use in the catchment is a relatively even mix of arable and pasture.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is evenly distributed throughout the catchment and is relatively low at less than 325mm p.a.



• The EA has adopted a policy of refusing consents for discharges to the inflow stream, including all private dwellings (EN, 2003).

• Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust has formed a Biodiversity Action Plan for mesotrophic lakes in the area, including Blackbrook, however, no specific DWPA activity has been identified.

BRADGATE PARK AND CROPSTON RESERVOIR



The lake habitat of Cropston Reservoir has been designated a SSSI due to its mesotrophic aquatic macrophytes. Phosphate levels are considered to be high, with high algal counts also having been recorded. Pollution by the pesticide atrazine has also been noted. Water quality evidence suggests that eutrophication is a problem within the reservoir and this is likely to be due to diffuse nutrient sources. There are, however, a number of STWs (some disused) that are present in the surrounding catchment, thus, complicating the issue (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use is split relatively evenly between livestock rearing and intensive arable production.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is evenly distributed throughout the catchment and is relatively low at less than 325 mm per annum.



• Water is pumped from Swithland reservoir to Cropston reservoir.

• A floating reedbed was installed in Swithland in an attempt to reduce P inputs to Cropston (EN, 2003). No specific activity to combat DWPA appears to be currently taking place.

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• English Nature has been liasing with Severn Trent Water to try to tackle the nutrient enrichment problems in Cropston Reservoir, however, they are not involved with any farmer group activity.

BUDDON WOOD AND SWITHLAND RESERVOIR



The lake habitat at Swithland Reservoir has been designated a SSSI for its mesotrophic macrophytes and breeding and wintering birds. Phosphate levels and algal bloom counts are high and this is thought to be due to diffuse pollution within the catchment (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Both arable land and pasture occupy a significant proportion of the catchment.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is less than 325mm p.a. and is evenly distributed throughout the catchment.


Other than the reedbed previously mentioned, there is no specific activity at Swithland reservoir aimed at combating diffuse pollution.

4.3.3 Lincolnshire

Hatfield Chase Ditches is the only priority catchment site identified in Lincolnshire.

HATFIELD CHASE DITCHES



The Hatfield Chase ditch system habitat has been designated a SSSI due to aquatic and emergent vegetation. The site comprises a series of agricultural drainage ditches, partly fed by acid runoff from areas of raised mire. Although there is low algal growth, nutrient tolerant species dominate the site and the area is surrounded by intensive agriculture (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use in the catchment is predominantly arable with less than 30% grassland coverage.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is low throughout the catchment, being less than 163mm p.a.



• 10m grassland buffer strips were proposed as a mitigation measure within the catchment in 2003 (EN, 2003).

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Stakeholder Groups

• The NFU were involved with farmer opinion surveys during the 1990s in this area, when a management plan was initially being drawn up for the area. The NFU believe that it would be relatively easy to resurrect this group of farmers for future DWPA activities.

• The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is active within the local area, however they are currently not involved with any DWPA activity at Hatfield Chase Ditches.

• FWAG has carried out general farm advisory visits in the area which often include DWPA issues, however, no specific DWPA projects have been undertaken.

East Midlands Summary

DWPA activity within the East Midlands region is largely organised by FWAG and the Peak District National Park Authority. Many farmers in the local area appear to be aware of, or involved in, a number of agri-environment schemes, however, there appears to be a lack of targeted diffuse pollution initiatives. FWAG are running a series of environmental stewardship workshops and training events for farmers throughout Derbyshire, starting towards the end of 2004.

Contacts for the East Midlands

Mrs Julia Hawley, Senior Rural Business Consultant, ADAS Management Consultancy Ltd. Tel: 01664 560866, email: [email protected].

Mr Paul Tame, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (East and West Midlands), National Farmers Union, Agriculture House, North Gate, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9NX. Tel. 01572 824255, email: [email protected]

Suzanne Perry, Conservation Officer, English Nature, East Midlands Region, The Maltings, Wharf Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6BH. Tel: 01476 584800, email [email protected].

Ian Evans, Conservation Officer, English Nature, East Midlands Region, The Maltings, Wharf Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6BH. Tel: 01476 584800, email: [email protected].

Mr Ben Lambert, Peak District National Park Authority. Tel: 01629 816395.

Chloe Palmer, Regional Manager – Midlands, FWAG, The Yard, Foolow, Eyam, Hope Valley, Sheffield, S32 5QA. Tel: 01433 639829, email: [email protected].

4.4 West Midlands Priority catchment sites have been identified in the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Warwickshire.

4.4.1 Hereford & Worcester

Three rivers have been identified as priority catchments in the Hereford/Worcester area.

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RIVER LUGG



The River Lugg is designated a SSSI, primarily for its salmon population, however, the site also falls within the River Wye cSAC. A general downward trend in water quality has been observed in the catchment due to increasing nutrient and sediment loads. Modelling work carried out by the Environment Agency and English Nature has indicated that diffuse inputs from agriculture are significant. FWAG has demonstrated excessive P application to land, particularly in chicken manure. Sediment levels in runoff have been attributed to overstocking of livestock and soil remaining bare during winter following the harvesting of maize.

Land-use

Land-use in the Lugg catchment varies greatly, from the uplands in the headwaters of the river to the west through to the lowlands where the Lugg joins the River Wye. Generally, agricultural land-use is dominated by livestock farming and the uplands are heavily dominated by pasture. Arable land is however sporadically distributed throughout the area and cereals and root crops are grown (Ragg et al., 1984).

Hydrology

Runoff generation varies considerably across the Lugg catchment, with the lower half producing no more than 325mm effective rainfall p.a. This increases in the uplands to the west however where the streams are more responsive to precipitation and effective rainfall can reach over 800mm per year.


A variety of projects has been carried out in the catchment to date, some of which are still ongoing. The River Wye, of which the Lugg is a tributary, has been a focal point for DWPA activity in recent years. The catchment has attracted funding because it has a particularly high conservation value combined with intensive farming activity.


• English Nature and FWAG have worked relatively extensively in the catchment and are establishing wildlife-friendly management strategies as part of the River Lugg Wildlife Enhancement Scheme. Buffer zones were introduced on farms over five years ago.

• Work has also included nutrient management planning and the establishment of a potato grower’s forum. Uptake has been favourable on the River downstream of Leominster but not very good on the lower section close to the confluence with the Wye.

• Farmer meetings have also been held by EN and FWAG to encourage whole farm plans and discuss pollution issues. These have focused on reducing phosphorus pollution due to fertiliser application. This project has now been completed and no further funding has been allocated.

DWPA Projects

• ADAS has undertaken a small number of farm visits in the area as part of the PSYCHIC project. Soil has been sampled in a number of fields and assessed using a phosphorus and sediment loss risk index in order to help develop the PSYCHIC Decision Support System.

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• Reading University has recently completed a nutrient modelling exercise in the Lugg catchment using the INCA model. CEH has also carried out modelling and risk assessment work in the catchment.

• A Landcare project has been proposed in the catchment but has not received funding to date.

Stakeholder Groups

• A number of small farmer groups have been formed and these have carried out activities including the production of nutrient management plans, testing of buffer zones and the establishment of a potato growers forum.

RIVER WYE



The River Wye has been designated a SSSI and cSAC primarily for its fish species. The salmon population has declined severely, however, due to a reduction in spawning habitat caused by the siltation of gravel beds. Other fish species are also thought to be affected, though less severely. The catchment is intensively farmed and nutrient budget work has shown excessive P application and poor soil management (EN, 2003).

Land Use

In recent years there has been a decline in riparian grassland areas and an increase in arable use, most notably potato production, particularly in the lower, more fertile, reaches of the catchment. Some parts of the catchment (e.g. the River Frome) have historically been used for hop production, leading to a high build up of P within the soil over time.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is highly variable, with over 1645mm p.a. in the upland pasture areas to below 325mm p.a. in the lowlands.


Conservation activity to reduce DWPA within the Wye catchment is extensive, as outlined previously for the River Lugg.

General Farm Advice

• FWAG has produced nutrient budgets on farms, partly via local funding but also supported by the Defra Challenge Fund.


• The area was targeted under the CSS and buffer strips have been promoted as pollution mitigation measures.

DWPA Projects

• Measures to control inputs of phosphorus and sediment to the river are being identified in the PSYCHIC (Phosphorus and Sediment Yield Characterisation In Catchments) project. This work is funded by Defra, the Environment Agency and English Nature. Led by ADAS, collaborators include the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, the National Soil Resources Institute and Sheffield, Reading and Exeter Universities. The aim of the project is to develop a decision support system to help reduce loads of phosphorus and sediment from diffuse sources in streams and

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rivers. A two year water quality monitoring programme has recently finished and twenty farm visits were carried out in 2004. Data from the catchment is helping to validate the model, which will be ready for use in 2005. Follow up work is anticipated.

• Furthermore, The Wye Grazers Project has explored options aimed at adding value to livestock enterprises whilst at the same time combating diffuse pollution.

• Most recently, the WYECARE initiative has begun, led by the EA, which is promoting best farming practice at a catchment wide scale.

• Herefordshire Wildlife Trust is also beginning a diffuse pollution project on the Wye floodplain at Letton.

Stakeholder Groups

• The NFU has consulted farmers about the original designation of the Wye as a SSSI and maintains regular contact with them.

RIVER TEME



The River Teme includes the River Clun SAC and has been designated a SSSI for several protected species including otter, fish and invertebrates such as the freshwater pearl mussel, in addition to vegetation species. The river is highly vulnerable to sediment impacts from upstream land management practices and sheep dip pollution has also been noted as a problem. Furthermore, STWs exist within the catchment. Eutrophication has been linked to diffuse nutrient inputs from agriculture (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use in the catchment comprises an equal mix of arable and grassland areas.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is relatively uniform throughout the catchment (164-325mm p.a.), although higher amounts occur in the upland areas.



• A review of consents is taking place under AMP4 (EN, 2003), although measures resulting from this programme will not be implemented for some time.


• Sustainable agricultural management is being promoted within the catchment, via Whole Farm Plans, ESA and CSS agreements, in particular on land adjoining the River Clun SAC.

Stakeholder Groups

• Riparian farmers were consulted during the 1990’s when the site was originally designated a SSSI, but since this time this particular group of farmers has not been approached on the issue of land management to reduce DWPA.

4.4.2 Shropshire

Five priority catchment sites have been identified in Shropshire.

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CLAREPOOL MOSS



Clarepool Moss SSSI includes transition mires, quaking bogs (basin mires) and a dystrophic lake habitat. The site also falls within the West Midlands Mosses SAC and the Midland Meres and Mosses Ramsar site. Features at risk include the spaghnum mire, open water and peatland. The site is classed as oligotrophic, however, it is vulnerable to nutrient inputs as it is surrounded by arable land and semi-improved grassland. Excess levels of nutrients have not been found at Clarepool Moss (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use is most intensive in the western half of the catchment, with both arable and livestock farming taking place.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is uniform throughout the catchment and ranges between 184 and 325mm p.a.



Countryside Stewardship agreements are in place at some farms within the catchment (EN, 2003). No other activity has been identified that specifically tackles DWPA.

FENEMERE



Fenemere is a lake habitat designated a SSSI due to its open water, reedswamp, fen, alder carr and wet grassland. The mere is shallow and eutrophic, with a noted decline in submerged macrophyte flora due to dense algae and turbidity from disturbed sediment. High levels of P and N have also been reported. Nutrient enrichment is attributed to increased stocking levels within an intensively farmed catchment. The system is predominantly groundwater fed however and high P levels may therefore be more closely associated with P cycling than directly from diffuse agricultural sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use within the catchment is dominated by grassland in the north and arable land in the south.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment is 184-325mm p.a. across the entire area.


DWPA Projects

• The site has been included in the EA’s NUPHAR project, which was completed in 2003. The aim of the project was to develop the existing risk-based prioritisation protocol for lakes, to provide a robust risk assessment approach for lakes and slow-flowing rivers in relation to nutrients to satisfy the requirements of the WFD. A tool

35

was developed to classify phytoplankton communities and recommendations were made for improving estimates of inputs of point-source phosphorus to water bodies from sewage works, septic tanks and fish farms. A four-tier risk assessment methodology was also produced for determining nutrient impacts in surface freshwater bodies from diffuse phosphorus.

FENN’S, WHIXALL, BETTISFIELD, WEM AND CADNEY MOSSES



These lowland raised mire sites have been collectively designated a SSSI and cSAC, also falling within the Midland Meres and Mosses Ramsar site. There is concern that nutrient-rich water draining the surrounding agricultural land may be affecting a lagg zone on oligotrophic moss margins. Septic tank overflows are also thought to be an issue (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use is predominantly grassland, with some arable towards the catchment boundary.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 184-325mm p.a. throughout the catchment.



• No specific activity has been identified within the catchment aimed at combating DWPA, although other land management practices such as drain blocking and water level manipulation have taken place (EN, 2003).

• There is a lowland bog habitat action plan backed by the local council.

• Shropshire Wildlife Trust are undertaking restoration of lowland raised mire at Wem Moss by trying to control scrub and raise water levels, however, they are not involved with any farmer groups.

MARTON POOL



Marton Pool is a lake habitat that has been designated a SSSI because of its reedswamp and aquatic flora. The lake has experienced problems with algal blooms, although the nature of nutrient enrichment at this site is poorly understood. Runoff from agricultural land does enter the lake (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use within the catchment is predominantly grassland, with some arable areas in the lower reaches of the site.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 326-488mm p.a. throughout most of the catchment, though there is a lower amount corresponding with the lowland areas.

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• No activity has been identified that aims to reduce DWPA at Marton Pool.

SWEAT MERE AND CROSE MERE



Sweat Mere and Crose Mere form a lakeland habitat, which has been designated a SSSI and is included in the Midland Meres and Mosses Ramsar site. Features at risk include reedswamp, alder carr and wet grassland. The catchment is largely agricultural and there is evidence of eutrophication within the lakes. There is, however, uncertainty as to the origin of high nutrient levels, given that this is a groundwater fed system and farming activity is thought to have declined recently (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Farming within the catchment is mixed although grassland is particularly dominant in the north-west and south-east of the catchment.

Hydrology




• No activity has been identified that specifically tackles DWPA, although a number of CSS agreements are in place

DWPA Projects

• The EA’s NUPHAR project included this site.

4.4.3 Staffordshire

Four priority catchment sites have been identified in Staffordshire comprising three lakes and one bog habitat.

AQUALETE MERE



Aqualete Mere has been designated a SSSI and NNR for its plant assemblages. The lake is considered to be highly eutrophic with major fish kills having been reported in connection with point source agricultural pollution incidents. Additionally, siltation has artificially lowered the water level and increased turbidity. High P levels have been connected with STWs and livestock manure from hardstandings, whilst N (and some P) inputs are associated with runoff from arable land (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Farming within the catchment is mixed and varies throughout the catchment. The upland areas are dominated by pasture land and the lower reaches by arable production.

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Hydrology



• No activity has been identified that specifically targets DWPA at this site.

BETLEY MERE



Betley Mere is a shallow lake that has been designated a SSSI for its plant assemblages. The site is considered to be hyper-eutrophic, with submerged macrophyte flora under threat from high nutrient inputs. The site is within an intensive agricultural catchment, with livestock density having increased over time and manure use consequently being widespread (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly grassland.

Hydrology



DWPA Projects

• The site was included in the EA’s NUPHAR project. No further activity to address DWPA has been identified.

BLACK FIRS AND CRANBERRY BOG



Black Firs and Cranberry Bog is designated a SSSI because of its vulnerability to increased nutrient levels. Eutrophic weed cover is a problem at the site and within the surrounding area, although this may be attributed to point source nutrient inputs, for example from domestic septic tanks. The catchment as a whole is intensively farmed and contains both arable land and improved pasture (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment has 40-50% arable coverage, with higher levels of grassland (>60%) in the eastern part of the catchment.

Hydrology



• No activity has been identified in relation to DWPA.

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COP MERE



Cop Mere is a lake habitat that has been designated a SSSI for its plant assemblages. It is connected to the River Sow, which has known nutrient problems, and this is thought to be the main cause of eutrophication within the lake. Cattle numbers have significantly increased over time within this agricultural catchment and N and P levels in the watercourse are thought to derive from diffuse agricultural sources, though STWs are also likely to have an impact within the catchment (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the catchment is varied, although there is typically 20-50% arable land coverage and over 60% grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall ranges between 164 and 488mm p.a.


• No DWPA activity has been identified at Cop Mere.

4.4.4 Warwickshire

Two priority catchments have been identified in Warwickshire, Birches Barn Meadow and the River Blythe.

BIRCHES BARN MEADOW



Birches Barn Meadow is an alluvial grassland site that has been designated a SSSI as it is surrounded by agricultural land and connected to the River Anker, which takes sewage outputs from Nuneaton.

Land Use

Farming is generally mixed, although cereal production has become increasingly dominant over grassland during recent years. Autumn sown wheat is the predominant arable crop in Warwickshire, as it suits the heavy soils.

Hydrology



• No DWPA activity has been identified at this site.

RIVER BLYTHE



The River Blythe drains an area of agricultural land and has been designated a SSSI due to its characteristic clay river flora and fauna. Silt accumulation within the river has

39

affected fish spawning grounds and eutrophication is attributed to runoff from agricultural fertilisers and STW discharges (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the Blythe catchment is an even mix of arable and pasture.

Hydrology




• A draft conservation strategy was produced for the site in 1999 (EN, 2003), although no further activity has been identified.

DWPA Activity

• Warwickshire FWAG is involved with a project on the River Blythe (and the River Thame) which involves nutrient management and waste management.

West Midlands summary

Activity to address DWPA in the priority catchment sites in the West Midlands is limited, with the exception of the Hereford and Worcester area which has extensive activity taking place. Relatively little monitoring work has been carried out at many of the West Midlands sites and consequently the extent of pollution risk is uncertain, so mitigation measures have not been enforced. In Shropshire, many of the sites are groundwater dominated and the Shropshire Groundwater Scheme may impact some of these areas. FWAG has organised farm walks across the county to demonstrate and promote best practice. The NERC LOCAR project also includes the River Tern in Shropshire as one of its trial sites. No work to specifically address DWPA has been identified in Warwickshire or Staffordshire. It is likely that any DWPA projects or initiatives in these areas focus on wider scale river catchments.

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is not involved with any of the priority sites in their local area. Herefordshire Wildlife Trust is also not currently involved with any of their local sites, however, they do have plans for a floodplain project in the Wye catchment.

The NFU helped to set up farmer groups for riparian farmers in the Lugg, Wye and Teme catchments during the 1990’s. The purpose of this was to discuss the SSSI designation, however, the NFU has had no call for involvement in any of these sites since then.

FWAG runs the Meres and Mosses Project across the region, funded by the EA and EN. The aim of the project is to improve the water quality of the meres and mosses through encouraging more environmentally responsible farming. Work has included

advice on the spreading and storage of manures and slurries as well as nutrient and waste management on farms in the catchment. Maize growing is a huge issue in these areas and so FWAG has been working with farmers to reduce the adverse environmental impacts of maize growing on the meres and mosses. FWAG has also

been encouraging uptake of agri-environment schemes as part of the project, specifically the establishment of margin, arable land reversion and extensive grassland management to reduce inputs.

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Contacts for the West Midlands

Mr Mike Wilkinson, Conservation Officer, English Nature, Somerset and Gloucestershire Team, Bronsil House, Eastnor, Nr Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1EP. Tel: 01531 638500, email: [email protected].

Mr Paul Withers, ADAS Catchment Management, Sunnyhill House, 1 Thistlebarrow Road , Salisbury SP1 3RU. Tel: 01722 417491, email: [email protected].

Dr Andrew Wade, Department of Geography, School of Human and Environmental Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AB. Tel: 0118 9875123, email: [email protected].

Jan Mckelvey, Conservation Manager, Shropshire Wildlife Trust. Tel: 01743 284280.

Chloe Palmer, Regional Manager – Midlands, FWAG, The Yard, Foolow, Eyam, Hope Valley, Sheffield, S32 5QA. Tel: 01433 639829, email: [email protected].

Mr Paul Tame, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (East and West Midlands), National Farmers Union, Agriculture House, North Gate, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9NX. Tel. 01572 824255, email: [email protected]

Francesca Griffith, Conservation Manager, Herefordshire Wildlife Trust. Tel: 01432 356872, email: [email protected].

4.5 East Region Priority catchment sites have been identified in the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

4.5.1 Bedfordshire

One site has been identified in Bedfordshire, Flitwick Moor.

FLITWICK MOOR



The valley mire habitat at Flitwick Moor has been designated a SSSI for its wetland flora and fauna. The loss of key bog plant species has been attributed to eutrophication and N and P levels have been identified as being high or very high in most areas (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Arable land occupies up to 50% of land cover, with grassland being of the same level of coverage in the lower part of the catchment and up to 30% in the upper reaches.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is very low throughout the catchment (<163mm p.a.)



• A water level management plan is in place, which is managed by the Bedford Group of Internal Drainage Boards.

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DWPA Projects

• A research project has also recently been carried out at Cranfield University, investigating seepage from the Flitwick Mill Leat to the Flitwick Moor extension.

Stakeholder Groups

• The site is owned by the Wildlife Trusts (Beds, Cambs and Northants area) who are interested in catchment sensitive farming issues and subject to funding are considering possible projects for the future.

• A number of small-scale conservation groups are active within the catchment. The Greensand Trust is an independent environmental charity that is working with local communities and landowners to conserve and promote the landscape, wildlife and history of the Greensand Ridge. Bedfordshire Wildlife Trust is not currently involved with any DWPA activity within the catchment although if funding becomes available this may be pursued.

• Bedfordshire Conservation Volunteers carry out ad hoc environmental management work, which has recently included reed cutting/raking and bracken/birch pulling.

Contacts for Bedfordshire

Greensand Trust. www.greensand-trust.org.uk. Email: [email protected]

Bedfordshire Conservation Volunteers. www.bedscv.freeserve.co.uk. Email: [email protected]

Mr Barry Eason (Clerk of the Bedford IDB), Bedford Group of Internal Drainage Boards.

Tel: 01234 354396.

Graham Bellamy, Senior Conservation Officer, Bedfordshire Wildlife Trust. Tel: 01234 362774, email: [email protected].

4.5.2 Cambridgeshire

One site has been identified in Cambridgeshire, the Ouse Washes.

OUSE WASHES



The Bedford Ouse catchment contains a number of SSSIs, SAC, SPAs and NNRs. Important features of these include fish populations, crayfish, water vole and wading birds. Pollution of rivers with nitrates and phosphate has caused enhanced eutrophication in the catchment. Sediment deposition has also been identified as a problem (English Nature, 2003).

Land use

The Bedford Ouse catchment is a predominantly lowland area with much land being below 50m a.o.d. Some land in the west of the catchment rises to a slightly higher elevation. Agricultural land-use is therefore dominated by the cultivation of arable crops (cereals and root crops). Livestock farming of dairy cattle, pigs and poultry remains common in some parts of the catchment, however, particularly in the west.

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Hydrology

Much of the catchment is underlain by clays, although limestones and sandstones dominate in some parts (Hodge et al., 1984). Rivers in the catchment are relatively base flow dominated with runoff production being low.


DWPA Projects

• The Cam Catchment Sustainable Farming Project is funded by English Nature, the EA, South Cambridgeshire District Council and the Cambridge Biodiversity Partnership. Additional Support has been given by the Cambridgeshire Wildlife Trust, the RSPB, the Cam Forum and the Cambridge Green Belt Project. The project includes an ongoing programme of events, including farm walks, practical workshops and demonstrations. A regular newsletter is also provided. Advice has been given to farmers on management of the riparian zone, use of agrochemicals, soil management and agri-environment schemes.

• The Ouse Valley Meadows and Wet Woodlands Project is a joint project between Huntingshire District Council, the Wildlife Trust (for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Peterborough) and FWAG. The aim is to identify sites for creation and restoration of wet meadows and the creation of wet woodland. A second component of the project is linking the ancient woodlands around Grafham Water through the creation of woodland belts and hedgerows. This will help reduce soil erosion in that part of the Great Ouse catchment. At present both aspects to the project are at their early stages, but both have had some notable successes. The project partners believe that there is great potential to expand the projects to meet multiple objectives, including reduction of diffuse pollution.

Contacts for Cambridgeshire

Mr David Middleditch, Environmental Consultant, ADAS Sustainable Land Management, Battlegate Road, Boxworth, Cambridgeshire, CB3 8NN. Tel: 01954 268300, email: [email protected].

Pat Neylon, Farm Conservation Advisor, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire FWAG, Defra, Eastbrook, Shaftsbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 2DR. Tel: 01223 533643, email: [email protected].

Martin Baker, Senior Conservation Officer (Bedfordshire and Peterborough), The Wildlife Trust, The Manor House, Great Cambourne, Cambridge CB3 6DH, Tel: 01954 713508, email: [email protected].

4.5.3 Essex

Eight priority catchment sites have been identified in Essex, including three estuaries and five reservoirs.

ABBERTON RESERVOIR



Abberton reservoir has been designated a SSSI and SPA for its migrant wildfowl. Excessive weed growth and algal blooms have been reported, although there is little evidence to prove this is due to diffuse pollution. P inputs are thought to be derived

43

from a STW on the River Stour (which feeds into the reservoir), but the catchment is largely agricultural and therefore a risk of DWPA does exist (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment is intensively farmed and predominantly arable.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is less than 163mm p.a. throughout the whole area.


Stakeholder Groups

• Essex Wildlife Trust is involved with DWPA activity at the reservoir. A recent project has lightly dredged part of the site in order to remove accumulated nutrient rich sediment and attract wildlife. This work was funded by Essex and Suffolk Water.

BLACKWATER ESTUARY



The Blackwater Estuary has been designated a SSSI and SPA for its mudflats and saltmarsh habitat. It is one of the largest estuary complexes in East Anglia and is a feeding ground for internationally important wildfowl populations. Algal growth and reduced species diversity suggest that eutrophication may be a problem (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Blackwater Estuary catchment is the largest identified in Essex. There is a large area of intensive arable production in the catchment with a lot of land being used entirely for growing cereals. In contrast, pastoral agriculture is limited and makes up no more than 30% of land cover.

Hydrology

The Blackwater Estuary catchment is very dry, as is Essex in general. Runoff generation is very low at less than 160mm throughout much of the area. This rises up to 325mm in the extreme north and west.



• CEFAS has carried out baseline monitoring surveys in the past, however, no specific DWPA activity has been identified.

• Essex Wildlife Trust is partway through a five year organic farming trial on the north bank of the Blackwater estuary.

COLNE ESTUARY



The Colne Estuary has been designated a SSSI and SPA for its intertidal sand, mud and saltmarsh habitats. The surrounding land use is predominantly arable farming and the saltmarshes have recently shown signs of degradation. Although there is a strong

44

influence of discharges from STWs in the catchment, it is probable that diffuse agricultural pollution also plays a significant role in this decline (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use in the Colne Estuary catchment is very similar to that in the Blackwater Estuary catchment, with extensive arable production and limited livestock farming.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is again very low in the catchment at less than 160mm p.a. over most of the area.


• No specific DWPA activity has been identified in the Colne Estuary catchment.

CROUCH AND ROACH ESTUARIES



Crouch and Roach Estuaries have been designated a SPA for their tidal mudfllats which provide feeding sites for internationally important wading birds and wildfowl. They also contain a diverse invertebrate fauna and assemblages of nationally scarce plants. Reduced species diversity and algal growth within the estuaries suggests that eutrophication is a problem (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Crouch and Roach Estuaries catchment has significant areas of intensive arable production. Significant livestock production also takes place however and land cover in some locations is made up entirely of pasture.

Hydrology

Runoff production in the catchment is again very low at less than 160mm p.a.


• No specific DWPA activity has been identified.

HAMFORD WATER



Hamford Water has been designated a SSSI, SPA and cSAC for its estuarine saltmarsh, intertidal sand and mud. The site is important for overwintering wildfowl and contains internationally important numbers of Little Terns. Reduced species diversity and algal growth are indicative of eutrophication problems in the estuary (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Hamford Water is a small coastal catchment with intensive arable production covering over 80% of land in the west of the catchment. Agriculture becomes less extensive at the coast. Some areas of livestock production exist, particularly in the north of the catchment.

Hydrology

Runoff generation in the catchment is below 160mm p.a.

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HANNINGFIELD RESERVOIR



Hanningfield Reservoir has been designated a SSSI for its migrant wildfowl. The reservoir acts as storage for the Chelmer river and there have been reports of algal blooms affecting benthic macrophytes. Several STWs discharge into the Chelmer, however, agricultural pollution is also likely to be an issue (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land cover in the Hanningfield Reservoir catchment is predominantly arable, 60-70% in the northern sector falling to 40-50% in the south. Pasture covers less than 30% throughout much of the catchment.

Hydrology

Runoff generation throughout most of the catchment is between 160 and 325mm p.a. This falls to less than 160mm in the extreme south however.



STOUR ESTUARY



The Stour Estuary has been designated a SSSI, SPA and cSAC for its intertidal sand, mud and salt marsh communities. Nutrient enrichment is characterised by reduced species diversity and algal blooms, attributed to a range of potential nutrient sources from the surrounding agricultural land. The sewage derived nutrient input is thought to be small and herbicide runoff from agricultural land has been identified as a particular pollution threat (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Stour Estuary catchment is heavily dominated by intensive arable production, which accounts for 80-100% of land cover in much of the catchment. Livestock production generally accounts for up to 30% of land cover in the eastern catchment although small pockets of more intensive pastoral production do exist.

Hydrology

Runoff production is very low at less than 160mm p.a. over most of the catchment.


Stakeholder Groups

• The Stour and Orwell Estuaries Management Group is a partnership of organisations that promotes sustainable commercial and recreational use of the estuaries by working with environmental management organisations. A new management plan has recently been set up to account for all the issues within the estuary, including DWPA.

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HUNSDON MEAD



Hunsdon Mead has been designated a SSSI due to its mesotrophic grassland. The site is within an agricultural catchment and the surrounding watercourses all have elevated nutrient levels. Nutrient enrichment and associated problems such as loss of species diversity has been attributed to flooding of nearby farmland (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Hunsdon Mead catchment has a very similar land use pattern to other catchments in Essex with arable production dominating, although smaller pockets of intensive livestock rearing also exist.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is slightly higher in the Hunsdon Mead catchment compared to the other priority catchments in Essex, at between 165 and 325mm throughout most of the catchment.



• English Nature maintains the site to reduce the impact of flooding.

• British Waterways has also undertaken towpath repairs, but it is not yet known whether this will provide a long-term solution (EN, 2003). No specific DWPA activity has been identified.

Contacts for Essex

David Smart, Farm Warden, Essex Wildlife Trust. Email: [email protected].

4.5.4 Norfolk

Seven priority river catchments have been identified in Norfolk.

RIVERS BURE, WAVENEY, WENSUM AND YARE



Norfolk contains a wide range of conservation sites, including SSSIs, SAC, SPA and Ramsar sites. Eutrophication is widespread throughout the river catchments however. Siltation is also an issue (EN, 2003). STW’s have been identified as a source of pollution and programmes under AMP 2, 3 and 4 have aimed to reduce phosphorus inputs to rivers. Agriculture has also been identified as a source of nutrients and sediment although little work has been put in place to tackle diffuse pollution. Agriculture is thought to be the main source of nutrient enrichment in the Waveney catchment (Pitt, 2001). Proposed reasons for the problem include elevated water levels in the fens due to damming of the Waveney and livestock grazing practices (Wheeler and Shaw, 2000). Outdoor pig rearing and the spreading of pig and poultry manure in the area is also widespread and could contribute to nutrient loadings (EN, 2003).

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Land Use

Norfolk comprises low-lying (0-100m a.o.d.) fertile land. A very high proportion of land is used for growing crops (cereals and root crops), with much of the area comprising 60-100% arable land. Livestock farming is also significant, however.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is very low with much of the catchment having less than 160mm effective rainfall p.a. and the remainder having no more than 490mm. This is unsurprising given that East Anglia receives the least annual precipitation in England, has a highly permeable geology (chalk and sandstones) and little variation in topography (Hodge et al., 1984).

Conservation activity in the catchment to reduce the impact of DWPA

A number of previous and ongoing projects has been carried out in Norfolk.

Stakeholder Groups

• Farmer groups have previously been established to work together on nutrient pollution, although these are not currently active.

• The EA has carried out programmes in the Wensum catchment in which training sessions were delivered for agronomists, conservation advisors, EA staff and other interested organisations, to provide information to them on diffuse pollution. The aim was that this information would then be disseminated to farmers. Uptake has been very positive, with 126 attendees, including 83 agronomists, county council officers, National Farmers Union, English Nature, Rural Development Service and Environment Agency staff. The training days have been based on those of the Landcare Projects that have been run in the Hampshire Avon catchment. They include the use of demonstration fields to explain how to identify land most at risk from surface runoff and erosion and how to combat this. Many of the recommendations are highly site specific and include reducing compaction, drilling in relatively dry weather and eliminating capping at the soil surface. The training days are to be complemented by farm visits from agronomists and conservation advisors. Newsletters are also being distributed to farmers via their agronomists.

• The Broadland Agricultural Water Abstractors Group (BAWAG) comprises 100 agricultural water abstractors and was formed in 1997 as a forum for the discussion of sustainable agricultural water management. The group has, however, focused on irrigation and water quantity issues rather than DWPA.

• The Norfolk Wildlife Trust is actively involved in these catchments and is taking part in various multi-stakeholder initiatives such as the Wensum Valley Project.

MUCKFLEET CATCHMENT



The Muckfleet catchment includes Hall Farm Fen, Hemsby SSSI, Trinity Broads SSSI and Burgh Common and Muckfleet Marshes. The catchment also falls within the Broads cSAC and the Broadland SPA and Ramsar sites. The fen and open water habitat includes meso-eutrophic lakes and ditch systems, chalk-rich fens, alder woodland, bogs and marshy grasslands. Eutrophication is widespread within the catchment, with excess nutrient inputs being largely attributed to diffuse agricultural sources (EN, 2003).

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Land Use

The Muckfleet catchment also has a significant coverage by intensive arable production although livestock farming remains important.

Hydrology

Runoff production is very limited, with effective rainfall being less than 160mm p.a. throughout most of the catchment.



• Some nutrient partition work has been undertaken as part of an EU LIFE project looking at lake restoration.

• ENTEC has also carried out a hydro-ecological review of the catchment (EN, 2003), however, no specific DWPA activity for farmer engagement was discovered.

RIVER ANT CATCHMENT



The River Ant catchment includes East Ruston Common SSSI, Broad Fen Dilham SSSI, Smallburgh Fen SSSI and the Ant Broads and Marshes SSSI. The catchment also falls within the Broads cSAC and the Broadland SPA and Ramsar sites. The fen and open water habitats include meso-eutrophic lakes and ditch systems, chalk-rich fens, alder woodland, bogs and marshy grasslands. Evidence of nutrient enrichment exists in floodplain areas and this is largely attributed to diffuse agricultural sources (EN, 2003).



• Phosphorus stripping has been undertaken on all major STW’s within the catchment under the AMP 3 and 4 programmes.

• Barton Broad has been included in the EA’s NUPHAR project and EN’s lake restoration scheme.

• A five year project is also underway to pump mud from Barton Broad (EN, 2003). However, there were no specific DWPA engagement activities noted.

RIVER THURNE



The River Thurne catchment includes the Upper Thurne Broads and Marshes SSSI, Shallam Dyke Marshes and Thurne SSSI. The fen and open water habitats include meso-eutrophic lakes and ditch systems, chalk-rich fens, alder woodland, bogs and marshy grasslands. Reed swamp has declined within the catchment and eutrophication is widespread throughout the waterbodies. As there are no STW’s within the catchment it is likely that pollution can be attributed to point and diffuse agricultural sources (EN, 2003).

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• The catchment includes an English Nature lake restoration site that is routinely monitored, however, there is currently no specific DWPA initiatives in place.

Contacts for Norfolk

Mr Paul Hammett, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (East Anglia), National Farmers Union, Agriculture House, Willie Snaith Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7SN. Tel: 01638 672100, email: [email protected].

Mr Andrew Olston, Broadland Agricultural Water Abstractors Group. Tel: 01263 733395, email: [email protected]

Lisa Turner, Senior Environment Officer, Environment Agency, 79 Thorpe Road, Norwich, NR1 1EW. Tel: 01473 706576, email: [email protected].

David Middleditch, ADAS. Email: [email protected].

John Hiskett, Senior Conservation Officer, Norfolk Wildlife Trust, 22 Thorpe Road, Norwich NR1 1RY. Email: [email protected].

4.5.5 Suffolk

Twelve priority sites have been identified in Suffolk.

ALDE-ORE ESTUARY



Alde-Ore estuary has been designated as a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site for its tidal habitats, which support waterfowl and wading birds. The site also falls within the Alde-Ore and Butley Estuaries cSAC. Excess algal growth has been linked to a decline in invertebrate prey and therefore a threat to bird life, as well as fish kills. The estuary catchment is within an area of intensive cereal production, with only one STW, therefore eutrophication is largely attributed to diffuse agricultural nutrient sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Geology of the area comprises Neogene and Pleistocene sands, overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace drift. Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly arable, with 60-100% land coverage in the upper and middle reaches of the catchment. Wheat, barley and sugar beet are the main crops grown in this area. The lowland coastal area is dominated by grassland, which supports some small-scale dairy farming.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is less than 163mm p.a. throughout most of the catchment, although this rises to 164-325mm p.a. in the upper inland areas where crop production is more intensive.


• No activity has been identified that aims to address DWPA in the Alde-Ore estuary.

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BAMBY BROAD



Bamby Broad has been designated a SSSI for its flora and fauna and also falls within the Broads cSAC and the Broadland SPA and Ramsar sites. Diffuse agricultural pollution by silt and nutrients is considered to be an issue, with observed instances of fish kills and water discoloration due to high sediment loads (EN, 2003).



• The site is included in a project that is investigating de-silting of the Suffolk Broads (EN, 2003). No further DWPA activity has been initiated.

BENACRE TO EASTERN BAVENTS



Benacre to Eastern Bavents has been designated a SSSI and SPA. The area also includes Benacre Broad NNR and Benacre to Eastern Bavents Lagoons cSAC. These swamp and standing water habitats support internationally important populations of breeding birds, whilst the saline lagoons are associated with important invertebrate fauna. Pollution from pig slurry, which flows into the site during storm conditions, is a known problem and has been associated with algal blooms. Slurry storage lagoons within the catchment may also act as point sources of pollution (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Geology of the area comprises Neogene and Pleistocene sands, overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace drift. Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly arable, with 60-100% land coverage in the western reaches of the catchment. Wheat, barley and sugar beet are the main crops grown in this area. The eastern coastal area is dominated by grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is less than 163mm p.a. throughout most of the catchment but this rises to 164-325mm p.a. in the western inland areas where crop production is more intensive.


• No activity has been identified that aims to address DWPA.

CHIPPENHAM FEN



Chippenham Fen has been designated a SSSI and NNR for its meadow and fen habitats. The site also falls within the Fenland cSAC. Winter flooding of the north meadows leads to blanket weed blooms and an increase in nutrient-rich plant communities has also been noted (EN, 2003).

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Land Use

The geology of Chippenham Fen is Cretaceous chalk, overlain by chalky till deposits. Agricultural land use is mainly arable cereal crops in the south-western part of the site, with 80-100% land coverage in places. In the north-east, the site has more extensive grassland areas.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is less than 163mm p.a. There is however a small area to the south of the site which receives marginally higher rainfall, up to 325mm p.a. in places.



• Chippenham Fen is part of the Great Fen project that is aiming to create a larger fenland habitat from three existing local sites. A water transfer scheme will ensure that habitats are not limited due to seasonal water storage and much of the local farmland is being targeted for improved land management. A full management strategy is planned for the near future, however, no specific DWPA activity has been identified.

DEBEN ESTUARY



Deben Estuary has been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site for its migratory bird species, which are of European importance. Algal blooms, that are affecting invertebrate food sources, have occurred due to high nutrient levels that are thought to derive mainly from agricultural land use, in particular cereal production (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Geology of the area comprises Neogene and Pleistocene sands, overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace drift, and some chalky till. Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly arable, with 60-100% land coverage in the upper and middle reaches of the catchment. Wheat, barley and sugar beet are the main crops grown in this area. The lowland coastal area is dominated by grassland, which supports some small-scale dairy farming.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is less than 163mm p.a. throughout most of the catchment, rising to 164-325mm p.a. in the upper inland areas where crop production is more intensive.


Stakeholder Groups

• Deben Estuary is part of the Suffolk Estuaries Management Group and has recently been the focus of a new management plan that includes diffuse pollution control measures. The Deben Initiative looks at the river and surrounding land through a holistic management approach, with the aim of conserving water quality to encourage wildlife and promote tourism in the area.

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HALVERGATE MARSHES



Halvergate Marshes has been designated a SSSI for its coastal marsh and ditch system which provides a habitat for migratory birds of European importance. The site also falls within the Orfordness to Shingle Street cSAC. A large proportion of the catchment comprises agricultural land (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment was historically drained for grazing use, however, more recent drainage work during the 1980s has enabled arable farming to become more widespread, in particular to take advantage of EU subsidies for oilseed rape.


Stakeholder Groups

• The RSPB is heavily involved in the management of this site. No actions to address DWPA have been initiated however.

MINSMERE-WALBERSWICK HEATHS AND MARSHES



Minsmere-Walberswick Heaths and Marshes has been designated a SSSI, cSAC, SPA and Ramsar site for its wetland birds. Heathland species such as natterjack toads are also an important feature. Diffuse pollution from agriculture is mainly associated with runoff from outdoor pig farms within the catchment (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The geology of the area comprises Neogene and Pleistocene sands, overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace drift. Agricultural land use within the catchment is mixed, with 60-100% arable coverage in the western part of the catchment where cereals are grown and extensive grassland areas in the east that support a number of outdoor pig farms.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is low throughout the catchment, with the majority of areas receiving less than 163mm p.a., although there is a slight increase further inland.


• No projects aiming to tackle diffuse pollution are currently taking place in this area.

ORWELL ESTUARY



The Orwell Estuary has been designated as a SSSI for its migratory bird species. The site also falls within the Stour and Orwell SPA and Ramsar sites. Saltmarsh plants have declined and this may be due to diffuse agricultural pollution as the catchment is predominantly agricultural. Particular problems have been associated with herbicide runoff (EN, 2003).

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Land Use

Geology of the area comprises Neogene and Pleistocene sands, overlain by glaciofluvial and river terrace drift, and some chalky till. Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly arable, with 60-100% land coverage in the upper and middle reaches of the catchment. Wheat, barley and sugar beet are the main crops grown in this area, hence pesticide and herbicide use is widespread. The lowland coastal area is dominated by grassland, which supports some small-scale dairy farming.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is low throughout the catchment, with the majority of areas receiving less than 163mm p.a., although there is a slight increase further inland.


Stakeholder Groups

• The Stour and Orwell Estuaries Management Group is a partnership of organisations that promotes sustainable commercial and recreational use of the estuaries by working with environmental management organisations. A new management plan has recently been set up to account for all the issues within the Estuary, including DWPA.

REDGRAVE AND LOPHAM FENS



Redgrave and Lopham Fens have been designated a SSSI, NNR and Ramsar site for their plant species. The site is also included in the Waveney and Little Ouse Fens cSAC. The area is recognised for its oligotrophic conditions and there has been an observed increase in the presence of reed stands. Nutrient enrichment is attributed to agricultural practices within the catchment (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The fens are fed by drift groundwater and it is likely that they are enriched by agricultural activities including grazing. Outdoor pig rearing and the use of poultry manure are widespread within the catchment. Soils are dominated by sands in the valley bottom. Nutrient enrichment may also result from the decomposition of peat.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is low throughout the catchment, with the majority of areas receiving less than 163mm p.a., although there is a slight increase further north.


• No activity has been identified that is taking place to counter DWPA in this area.

SPRAT’S WATER AND MARSHES



Sprat’s Water and Marshes has been designated a SSSI for its mixed fen and freshwater habitats (EN, 2003).

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• No DWPA activity has been found at this site.

WESTON FEN



Weston Fen SSSI is also included in the Waveney and Little Ouse fens cSAC and has been designated as such due to its meadow flora. The site is surrounded by agricultural land and algal growth has been noted following flooding incidents (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The small catchment surrounding Weston Fen is intensively farmed, with arable crop coverage 60-100% across the whole area.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 164-325mm p.a. throughout the catchment


• No specific activity has been identified at this site.

BLO NORTON AND THELNETHAM FEN



Blo Norton and Thelnetham Fen has been designated as a SSSI for its plant assemblages. The site also falls within the Waveney and Little Ouse cSAC. The fens regularly flood from the main river channel, and this is thought to be the main cause of pollution transfer.

Land Use

The catchment is intensively farmed, with 80-100% arable land coverage across much of the area; consequently grassland coverage is low. Duck and goose farming within the catchment are perceived as a particular threat in terms of nutrient sources.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is low throughout the catchment, with the majority of areas receiving less than 163mm p.a.


Stakeholder Groups

• The Blo Norton Fen Conservation Group (which merged with the Little Ouse Headwaters Project in 2003) leases and manages the fens and has done so since 1997. They focus on wildlife enhancement and vegetation clearance is carried out as needed.

Contacts for Suffolk

Suffolk FWAG. Tel: 01284 756024.

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Suffolk Coasts and Heaths Unit. Tel: 01394 384948.

Dr Helen Smith, Little Ouse Headwaters Project. Email: [email protected].

Lisa Turner, Environment Agency. Email: [email protected].

Eastern region summary

DWPA activity in the Eastern region is limited at many of the priority sites in this part of the country, which is characterised by intensive arable farming. Problems of eutrophication on the Norfolk Broads have been well documented in the past due to the area’s high recreational and tourism appeal. The Norfolk Arable Land Management Initiative (NALMI) project, run through the Countryside Agency, has recently finished. The project aimed to promote best farming practice by working closely with local landowners within a number of key intensively farmed areas, in order to reduce diffuse pollution. The key aspect of this project was effective stakeholder engagement. Norfolk Wildlife Trust is involved in a number of conservation projects in the Norfolk Broads area, which includes all the priority sites in Norfolk. The Little Ouse Headwaters Project is a community run initiative operating in the Suffolk Fen sites. Diffuse agricultural pollution is a key issue at all the sites involved and one that the project would be keen to address. The EA is running several local projects throughout the Eastern region of relevance to DWPA issues: training days have been run for farm advisors and agronomists to show them how to identify fields at risk of causing diffuse pollution, along with associated mitigation measures. FWAG, county councils, EN and the NFU have all been actively involved. Suffolk FWAG regularly gives advice on a range of land management topics to local farmers. Particular initiatives include tree and hedge planting under the CSS. Coppicing and pollarding is also carried out through the CSS, as is heathland regeneration. The Suffolk Heaths and Coasts unit has developed a scheme named ‘CONNECT’ that is backed by local businesses in order to protect the environment through conservation and wildlife enhancement schemes.

4.6 The South East Priority catchment sites in the South East of England have been identified in the counties of Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

4.6.1 Kent

Four priority catchment sites have been identified in Kent, comprising a river and three marsh habitats.

RIVER BEULT



The River Beult is valued for the characteristic clay river flora that it supports. Increased nutrient levels have, however, encouraged the growth of other species such as Lemna (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Land use in the catchment is highly mixed with high concentrations of both arable and pastoral agricultural being distributed around the catchment.

Hydrology

Runoff generation in the catchment is low, at less than 325 mm. The streams and rivers are therefore largely baseflow dominated.

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• A £2.6 million project is underway to improve water treatment technology at Sissinghurst treatment works, with a direct emphasis on improving water quality in the River Beult. The project is funded by Southern Water.

DWPA Projects

• The Interreg IIIA project, ‘Promoting Good Farm Practice in Kent, East Sussex and Somme’, aims to produce whole farms plans for 80 farms. These place a particular emphasis on sustainable soil management but address other concerns such as wildlife conservation. Discussions are currently taking place on how to monitor the effectiveness of these plans. The project will be completed in 2005.

SANDWICH BAY TO HACKLINGE MARSHES



The habitat between Sandwich Bay and Hacklinge Marshes has been designated a SSSI and comprises grazing marsh, ditches, saltmarsh and coastal waters. The area also falls within the Sandwich Bay cSAC and the Thanet Coast and Sandwich Bay SPA and Ramsar site. The grazing marsh ditches host nationally scarce species of plants and invertebrates that have become impoverished due to algal growth within the ditches. The ditch system receives drainage water from an intensive arable agricultural catchment (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Agricultural land use within the catchment is comprised of intensive cereal production across the whole area. Grassland coverage is limited, with high concentrations only being found in isolated spots near the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 164-325mm throughout much of the catchment, indicating that baseflow is dominant. In the northern reaches of the catchment rainfall is less than 163mm p.a., whilst there are also isolated spots in the south that receive 326-488mm.


• No specific activity has been identified that aims to combat DWPA at Sandwich Bay or Hacklinge Marshes.

THE SWALE



The Swale habitat has been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site and comprises grazing marsh, a ditch system, mudflats and saltmarsh. The grazing marsh ditches host nationally scarce species of plants and invertebrates that have become impoverished due to algal growth within the ditches. The ditch system receives drainage water from an intensive arable agricultural catchment and water quality data show evidence of eutrophication (EN, 2003).

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Land-use

Grassland coverage reaches 80-100% near the coast and in some other isolated spots, however the vast majority of the area is used for intensive crop production.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is under 163mm p.a. in the lower reaches of the catchment nearer the coast and 164-325mm in the inland upper reaches.


• No DWPA activity has been identified.

WALLAND MARSH



Walland Marsh has been designated a SSSI for its botanically rich dykes and rich invertebrate fauna. High nutrient levels have been reported in the main drains and associated algal blooms have been linked to fish kills. The ditch system receives drainage water from an intensive arable catchment, with much of the former grazing marsh having been ploughed to arable land during the twentieth century (EN, 2003).

Land-use

The catchment was originally used for extensive sheep pasture. Substantial areas of grazing do remain, particularly in the west of the catchment, although much of the land is now drained and used for arable production.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Walland Marsh is 326-488mm p.a. in the western part of the catchment, falling to 164-325mm p.a. further east and nearer the coast.


• No specific DWPA activity has been identified at Walland Marsh.

Contacts for Kent

Mr Paul Cobb, Farm Conservation Advisor, Kent FWAG, Coldharbour Farm, Wye, Ashford, TN25 5DB. Tel: 01233 813186, email: [email protected].

Mr Keith Scandrett, ADAS. Email: [email protected].

Mr John Archer, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (South East), Agriculture House, Station Road, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 7AR. Tel: 01730 408005, email: [email protected].

4.6.2 Sussex

Three priority catchment sites have been identified in Sussex.

CHICHESTER HARBOUR



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The coastal waters at Chichester Harbour have been designated a SSSI for their estuarine flora and snail species. The site also falls within the Chichester and Langstone Harbours SPA and Ramsar sites, and the Solent Maritime cSAC. High levels of N, P, as well as elevated BOD, have been observed within the harbour, with indirect impacts on birds via the invertebrate food supply from inter-tidal mudflats. Discharges from STW’s within the catchment are thought to be the main source of excess nutrients, however, the site is also considered to be at risk from diffuse agricultural pollution. Pesticide drift in particular has caused concern (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Farming within the catchment is mixed, with areas of intensive arable production, and associated heavy pesticide usage, along with significant areas of pasture land.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment decreases downstream towards the coast. The inland headwaters receive 489-651mm p.a. indicating that surface streams show a quick response to rainfall events. Runoff production in the middle reaches of the catchment is 326-488mm p.a., whilst in the lower coastal reaches it is much lower, at 164-325mm p.a.


Problems with algal blooms in the harbour have been well documented, but mitigation activity appears to have peaked several years ago.


• STW’s in the catchment have been targeted for improvement under the water companies’ AMP process.


• Farmers have also been encouraged to adopt the ESA scheme and CSS uptake within the catchment has been relatively widespread.

DWPA Projects

• The WILDCRU Sustainable Farming Initiative is a pilot project aimed at partnership working with farmers to restore biodiversity at the landscape scale. The project also includes the Upper Thames Tributaries ESA and is being run by the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WILDCRU) based in the Department of Zoology at Oxford University.

COMBE HAVEN



The fen communities at Combe Haven have been designated a SSSI for their reed beds and ditch system. General site degradation has been observed and algal blooms have been noted in the ditches. There are no STWs within the surrounding catchment, hence diffuse pollution from agriculture is the likely source of excess nutrients entering the system (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Farming in the Combe Haven catchment is mixed. Grassland has over 50% coverage in many areas, suggesting that manure and slurry use is likely to be widespread on arable farms.

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Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 164-325mm p.a. throughout most of the area, with slightly higher levels nearer the upper section of the catchment.



• Uptake of ESA and CSS has been encouraged within the catchment but no further specific DWPA activity was found.

PEVENSEY LEVELS



The wet meadow habitat of Pevensey Levels has been designated a SSSI and Ramsar site for the flora and fauna found within the ditch system. Aquatic macrophyte assemblages and invertebrate populations are features particularly at risk. The site has been extensively monitored and both chemical water quality and macrophyte surveys suggest that diffuse pollution from agriculture is a problem. Discharges from STWs have also been identified as an issue within the catchment (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Pevensey Levels is a low-lying site with extensively grazed wet meadows and some arable fields. Grassland coverage is 60-100% across much of the area.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 164-325mm p.a. across the majority of the catchment, with some peripheral areas in the north and west producing 326-488mm p.a.



• The Pevensey Levels Study has been carried out to identify long term ecological changes within the catchment.

• An Interreg project was proposed by the EA for a Eutrophication Catchment Action Plan (ECAP) to assess the influence and extent of diffuse pollution at Pevensey Levels. No specific DWPA activity appears to be taking place at present, however.

Contacts for Sussex

Mr Keith Scandrett, ADAS. Email: [email protected].


4.6.3 Hampshire and Wiltshire

Four rivers have been identified as priority catchment sites in Hampshire and Wiltshire.

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RIVER AVON SYSTEM



The River Avon system has been designated a SSSI and cSAC for its diverse plant, invertebrate and fish communities. There are a number of water quality issues within the catchment, including eutrophication, siltation, turbidity and pesticide pollution. Declines in salmon and trout have been linked to algal growth. N and P levels within the system have recently increased and are considerably higher than the recommended guidelines. Runoff from agricultural land is thought to be the main source of pollution (EN, 2003).

Land-use

The upper catchment is characterised by rolling chalklands and sheltered river valleys and includes the arable landscape of Salisbury Plain. The floodplain itself hosts a number of large water bodies as well as low-lying pastures. Farming practice is intensive throughout the catchment, with Greensand soils being particularly vulnerable to erosion.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is 164-325mm p.a. in the upper and eastern reaches of the catchment, increasing to 326-488mm p.a. in the western part of the catchment and the lower reaches. The area is dominated by chalk streams.


The River Avon has been heavily targeted in recent years for DWPA activity.

General Farm Advice

• Integrated farm management plans have been produced throughout the catchment by FWAG.

DWPA Projects

• The EA Landcare Project, encouraging best practice amongst landowners, is running in the catchment.

• The PSYCHIC project has also monitored sites within the catchment and is developing a risk assessment and decision support tool that will help target suitable mitigation options for phosphorus and sediment loss. Ten farm visits have been carried out to look at field scale soil erosion and sediment transfer, along with phosphorus inputs and loss.

• The Wildlife Trusts are heavily involved with work in the catchment and employ a project officer to deliver the Wessex Chalk Streams Project, which advises farmers about wildlife friendly land management in riparian zones. Several more projects in this area are planned for the future.

• The Wessex Water Biodiversity Project is also run by the Wildlife Trusts, supported by Wessex Water and UK Waste Management. The project is focusing on seven of the species and habitats that the Avon area is particularly important for: water vole, greater horseshoe bat, declining arable birds and plants, white-clawed crayfish, marsh fritillary, high brown fritillary and reedbeds. The aim of the project is to achieve practical action by contacting landowners in these areas and working with them to improve the habitats of these species. Encouraging sympathetic habitat management has other spin-offs. For example, improving rivers and ditches for water voles also benefits dragonflies and moorhens. It can also lead to

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landowners entering their land into the CSS, a government incentive which pays them to manage it according to the specifications of a 10-year agreement.

RIVERS TEST AND ITCHEN



A number of conservation site designations exist in these catchments. The River Test is an ESA and SSSI whilst the Itchen is a SSSI and a cSAC. The rivers are noted for their extremely diverse plant and macro-invertebrate communities as well as game fish, breeding birds and aquatic mammals. The ecology of these rivers is at risk due to high nutrient loadings, attributed to DWPA (Environment Agency, 2000). Sediment transfer from land to the rivers has also been identified as being problematic (English Nature, 2003).

Land-use

Land-use in the catchment is dominantly arable and is highly intensive over much of the catchment. Pasture land is most prevalent to the south towards the lower reaches of the rivers.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment is moderate, indicating that both groundwater and surface/near-surface runoff make up considerable proportions of the rivers’ discharge.


A number of projects have been identified that aim to encourage catchment sensitive farming.


• The EA is carrying out work on sedimentation and discharges of sediment from fish farms, groundwater data trends and pesticide pollution.

• Hampshire County Council has produced the Hampshire Water Strategy and has involved the NFU in its production. Parts of the strategy deal with DWPA and the effects of agriculture on the water environment more generally.

DWPA Projects

• The Test and Itchen Landcare Project is a two year project that will run until early 2005 and is joint funded by the Environment Agency and English Nature. 400 farmers have received mailshots and there are four pilot projects running on selected farms where two agronomists are advising farmers. 35 pasture pumps have been installed on livestock farms to reduce bank erosion and pollutant transport to surface water.

RIVER TILL



The River Till SSSI is part of the Avon catchment cSAC and has been designated as such for its chalk river habitat. Several European protected species exist at the site, including salmon and otter. Concerns about water quality status have been highlighted by issues in the wider Avon catchment, with diffuse pollution from agriculture again being highlighted as the main cause (EN, 2003).

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Land-use

The Till catchment is located in the upper central reaches of the River Avon system and land use is dominated by intensive cereal crop production.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the Till is 164-325mm p.a., illustrating that baseflow is an important feature of this chalk stream catchment habitat.


DWPA Projects

• The PSYCHIC project has used the Till as one of its targeted monitoring points within the Avon and the site is therefore included in the overall project.

• The Till will also benefit from DWPA initiatives operating within the wider Avon catchment, such as the EA’s Landcare programme.

Contacts for Hampshire and Wiltshire

Mr Charles Bentley, Senior Consultant, ADAS Sustainable Land Management. Tel: 01380 859612, email: [email protected].

Mr Harry Barton, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Email: [email protected].

Debbie Wicks, Senior Biodiversity Officer, Hampshire and IOW Wildlife Trust, Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32 2DP. Tel: 01489 774400, email: [email protected].

4.6.4 Berkshire and Oxfordshire

Four priority catchment sites have been identified in Oxfordshire.

COTHILL FEN



Cothill Fen has been designated a SSSI and cSAC for its alkaline fen and alder woodland. Anecdotal evidence of nutrient enrichment has been reported in areas of the site adjacent to intensively managed pasture land (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Farming in the catchment is mixed, with intensive arable production coverage of 60-70% in the upper reaches. Intensively managed pasture land is prevalent in the lower reaches.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall ranges from 164-325mm p.a. in the upper and middle reaches of the catchment, to less than 163mm p.a. in the lower reaches of the catchment.


• No specific activity has been identified that aims to combat DWPA at Cothill Fen.

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River Kennet



The River Kennet is a chalk river system that has been designated a SSSI for its fish and invertebrate species. Excessive turbidity and sedimentation have been reported, as has the suppression of aquatic plant growth, in particular a reduction in macrophyte species diversity. Excess nutrient levels have been measured and these have been attributed to diffuse agricultural inputs, even where point sources also occur (EN, 2003).

Land-use

The River Kennet borders the Avon catchment and has similar intensive farming systems. Also dominated by chalk streams, much of the area is under cereal production, with the most intensive areas located to coincide with higher rainfall.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is 164-325mm p.a. Higher amounts occur in the western part of the catchment and the south, near the headwater streams of the West Avon.


General Farm Advice

• The Wildlife Trusts are involved in the Kennet catchment in an advisory capacity, looking at riparian land management to protect water vole habitat.

Agri-environment Schemes

• The River Kennet has been targeted for the CSS.

DWPA Projects

• FWAG operates a farm advisory programme in the areas, called Landwise. This is similar in approach to the EA’s Landcare initiative, aiming to work with local farmers to reduce diffuse pollution at the catchment scale.

• The Kennet Valley Countryside Project is a FWAG project, and has carried out nutrient budgeting and specific diffuse pollution minimisation advice, as well as general habitat management throughout the catchment within Berkshire. It has received some funding from the GCT, which is a local grant-giving body, but is funded largely by West Berkshire Council and the EA.

• Protecting soils and enhancing biodiversity in the Berkshire and Oxfordshire Downs and South Chilterns. This project is run by the RSPB and Thames Water and covers diffuse pollution from agriculture mainly in the Kennet, Pang and Lambourn catchments. A review document has been produced with assistance from FWAG, ADAS, Chilterns Conservation Board, English Nature, Environment Agency, National Trust, North Wessex Downs AONB, Pang & Kennet Valleys Countryside Project, Defra (RDS) and others. The report attempts to draw together sources of advice and demonstration of best practice to farmers.

RIVER LAMBOURN



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The River Lambourn is a chalk river system similar in nature to the Kennet and has been designated as a SSSI and cSAC for its fish species. Excessive turbididty and sedimentation have been reported, as has the suppression of aquatic plant growth, in particular a reduction in macrophyte species diversity. Excess nutrient levels have been measured and these have been attributed to diffuse agricultural inputs, even where point sources also occur (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Similar to the Kennet, the Lambourn is intensively farmed, with arable land coverage in excess of 60% throughout much of the catchment. Isolated areas of intensively managed pasture land are also present.

Hydrology




• The Lambourn is a priority for AMP3 and AMP4 to reduce inputs from STWs.


• The Lambourn is a target area for the CSS.

DWPA Projects

• A number of academic research projects have targeted the Kennet catchment, most recently the LOCAR project, which is studying diffuse pollution modelling.

• Protecting soils and enhancing biodiversity in the Berkshire and Oxfordshire Downs and South Chilterns. This project is run by the RSPB and Thames Water and covers diffuse pollution from agriculture mainly in the Kennet, Pang and Lambourn catchments. A review document has been produced with assistance from FWAG, ADAS, Chilterns Conservation Board, English Nature, Environment Agency, National Trust, North Wessex Downs AONB, Pang & Kennet Valleys Countryside Project, Defra (RDS) and others. The report attempts to draw together sources of advice and demonstration of best practice to farmers.

• The Lambourn Valley Countryside Project operates out of the same office as the Kennet Valley Countryside project, run and administered by the same team, targeted at meeting some of EN's aims and objectives for the catchment, including diffuse pollution awareness and minimisation as a major facet.

STANFORD END MILL AND THE RIVER LODDON



The site at Stanford End Mill and the River Loddon has been designated a SSSI for plant assemblages present within its flood meadow habitat. Vegetation indicates that eutrophication of the river has occurred and the main cause of this is likely to be point source discharges from local STWs (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Agricultural land use is concentrated in the upper catchment and the peripheral areas. Arable coverage is over 50% in many areas and there are some isolated areas of high grassland coverage.

Hydrology

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Standford End Mill is connected to both the Test and Itchen river catchments. Effective rainfall at the site is 164-325mm p.a., although this increases towards the headwaters of the River Itchen.


General Environmental activity

• Improvements have been implemented at Basingstoke STW to reduce phosphorus levels within the catchment.

• The site has also been targeted under local Biodiversity Action Plans, however, no specific projects were identified that were relevant to DWPA.

Contacts for Berkshire and Oxfordshire

Mr Harry Barton, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Email: [email protected].


South East summary

Although very little mitigation activity has been identified for specific priority sites in Kent, many areas fall within the NVZ designations that have led to reduced stock numbers on many farms. The ESA scheme is also relatively widespread across farms in Kent and this has helped to reduce nutrient inputs at point sources. Previous work undertaken has resulted from the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan, which focused on abstraction management and pollution control.

The Sussex coastline has a number of active conservation groups in the area. There are some small multi-stakeholder projects that have taken place and it is likely that DWPA issues identified will be combated by land management practices implemented via farm advisory programmes. The Rother Valley Project focuses on diffuse pollution issues in the Sussex Downs AONB and attempts to draw together sources of advice on best practice for farmers.

Catchments in Hampshire and Wiltshire have been the focus for several large research projects looking specifically at DWPA issues. The area has also benefited from the EA’s Landcare programme, hence farmers in these catchments are aware of the range of agri-environment schemes available to them.

4.7 South West Region

4.7.1 Somerset

BRIDGWATER BAY



The coastal waters of Bridgwater Bay are classified under the Pawlett Hams SSSI. The site is important for over-wintering wildfowl, freshwater invertebrates and aquatic

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plants. The site is part of the wider River Parrett catchment which is known to have elevated nutrient levels, however, little is known on the potential effects of this within the Bay (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the Bridgewater Bay catchment is mixed. The area draining from the east is under intensive grassland coverage, whilst the area draining from the west has 40-70% arable coverage in many places, though intensive grassland areas also exist.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Bridgewater Bay is 164-325mm p.a. in the central part of the catchment and 326-488mm p.a. in the eastern and western peripheral areas.



• Farmers in the catchment have been encouraged to join the CSS and WES schemes.

• EN has been involved in arable reversion in some coastal areas.

Stakeholder Groups

• The site is managed under the Bridgwater Bay and Barnstaple Bay Shoreline Management Plan, run by the North Devon and Somerset Coastal Group. No other specific DWPA projects have been identified.

NORTH SOMERSET MOORS



North Somerset Moors encompasses four SSSI sites and is important because of its aquatic invertebrates and plants. Excessive algal growth has been recorded in a small number of ditches and this correlates with feeder streams that are known to have water quality problems. Agricultural land management is the main factor contributing to pollution within the catchment (EN, 2003).



• Various measures are in place under AMP 3 and 4 to reduce point source pollution.


• English Nature launched its Wildlife Enhancement Scheme during the mid-1990’s as part of the SSSI designation. Since then, farmers have been encouraged to join, receiving payment for measures such as not fertilising field edges.

DWPA Projects

• The North Somerset Levels and Moors Project is a partnership between the Avon Wildlife Trust, North Somerset Council, the Environment Agency, English Nature, Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre (BRERC) and the Wessex Otters and Rivers Project. The project aims to encourage a greater awareness and understanding of the special and unique wildlife of the Levels and Moors and to promote the sympathetic management of the grasslands and network of rhynes (wet ditches) and hedgerows that characterise this landscape. These aims are

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being achieved through the implementation of local Biodiversity Action Plans for otters, water voles, rivers and streams, and coastal and floodplain grazing marsh. The plans set out actions that will benefit the wetlands and rivers of North Somerset and the plants and animals that they support. Working with landowners and community groups, the project carries out activities such as advising on grants available for sympathetic land management, building otter holts, surveying and monitoring otter and water vole populations and advising on appropriate rhyne management.

SOMERSET LEVELS AND MOORS



The Somerset Levels and Moors have been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site and comprise areas of grazing marsh within the Bure and Parrett river catchments. High nutrient levels have been linked to algal growth and fish kills. Part of the catchment is intensively farmed, but pollution may also derive from septic tanks (EN, 2003)

Land Use

Farming within the catchment is mixed, with intensive grassland areas of up to 100% land coverage near the catchment boundaries and in the east. Arable production is concentrated in the central part of the catchment.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Somerset Levels and Moors is similar to the situation at Bridgewater Bay, whereby there is a zone of lower runoff production in the central part of the catchment draining towards the coast (164-325mm p.a.), surrounded by a peripheral zone of higher runoff at 326-488 mm p.a.



• EN has promoted its Wildlife Enhancement Scheme in the area, forming agreements with farmers on reduced fertiliser use and other measures to help reduce DWPA.

• EN and FWAG are working on ESA regulations in the area. Various water quality and quantity issues have been identified, for example, duckweed in ditches and associated nutrient enrichment.

DWPA Projects

• The Somerset Levels and Moors project complements the work of the RSPB's two Somerset reserves by developing RSPB conservation activities in the wider area, with a dedicated project officer. The project has developed productive working relationships with a wide range of government agencies, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders. Over the last 25 years breeding wader populations have shown a dramatic decline, and one species, the black tailed godwit, has become extinct in the area. However, survey work conducted in 2002 shows that population declines have been halted, or even reversed, in recent years. Evidence suggests that this is largely due to more sympathetic and environmentally friendly farming under Defra's ESA scheme.

• The RSPB is promoting the beneficial effects of ESA farming and is a partner to the Raised Water Level Project that supports and advises farmers on land

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management. Lapwing are the only waders that are still declining in the area and this is of great concern. A recovery programme, under development, aims to reverse the decline of this bird by the promotion of lapwing friendly farming, monitoring and research, not just on the Moors but in the wider area.

• The EA produced a Somerset Levels and Moors Water Level Action Plan in 1999. One of the recommended actions was improving water quality, particularly DWPA. The focus was on water chemistry and associated remedial land management, including a DWPA campaign.

• In the wider Parrett Catchment, FWAG are involved in an EU INTERREG funded project, providing tailored advice to farmers on diffuse pollution, soil erosion and flooding. Demonstration sites, workshops and risk assessments have all been included in the project, as well as some provision of grants for farmers to fence off river banks. This project is also linking in with the Defra funded ‘BUFFERS’ project, run by NSRI. This project aims to investigate the field efficiency of vegetative buffer strips at reducing phosphorus loss.

Somerset Contacts

Steven Parker, English Nature. Tel: 01823 250861

John Leece, Somerset FWAG (EN office), EN, Somerset Team, Roughmore, Bishop’s Hole, Taunton, Devon, TA1 5AA. Tel: 01823 250872.

4.7.2 Devon

ERME ESTUARY



The Erme Estuary has been designated a SSSI for its saltmarsh habitats which support important breeding bird communities and provide feeding grounds for winter and migratory birds. High BOD in the river has been attributed to a single silage or slurry pollution incident and there have also been reports of increased Enteromorpha growth on the mudflats (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use within the catchment is predominantly grassland, with some arable production concentrated near the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the Erme estuary catchment is high, with the headwaters receiving 1303-1464mm p.a. This decreases downstream towards the coast, where the lower middle and coastal areas produce approximately 500-800mm p.a.



• The site comes under the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan.

DWPA Projects

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• The ‘Life into Landscape’ project is a £1.3m programme of activities to conserve and enhance the natural beauty and rich heritage of South Devon. It provides opportunities for both locals and visitors to explore the countryside, and to become involved in caring for it. Launched in October 2003, the projects are as diverse as restoring old green lanes to increasing awareness of historic monuments. The three year programme will draw to a close at the end of 2006, by which time it should have achieved the aims of advisory visits to 150 farmers and landowners and provision of 120 capital grants to conserve and enhance the landscape heritage of South Devon.

EXE ESTUARY



The Exe estuary has been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site for its bird life. There has been a long-term decline in the diversity of algal species and the extent of eelgrass and water quality monitoring data suggests that the estuary is eutrophic. Sources of nutrients are derived from the River Exe upstream, via runoff from agricultural land within the catchment. Pesticides and sediment may also have an adverse effect on fish and invertebrates. Point source sewage discharges contribute to nutrient loads and cause serious contamination in localised areas (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The Exe estuary catchment extends from its headwaters, near the North Devon coast, all the way across to the estuary mouth on the South Devon coast. Intensive farming is carried out within the catchment, with grassland covering the majority of the area and arable production concentrated in the lower reaches of the catchment.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall is very high in the headwaters of the catchment, typically 1303-1464 mm p.a., but with some isolated spots producing even higher amounts of runoff. Runoff generation decreases with distance downstream and the majority of the lower half of the catchment produces 326-488mm p.a. At the coast, effective is lower at 164-325mm p.a.



• The Exe Estuary Management Plan and Catchment Management Strategy are both run by local authorities.

DWPA Projects

• The Exe catchment is part of the EU funded Cycleau programme which aims to improve water management through better farming practice.

RIVER AXE



The River Axe has been designated a SSSI and cSAC for its macrophyte and invertebrate assemblages as well as its fish species. Changes in species richness has been noted in the lower reaches of the river and there is a history of algal blooms. Suspended sediment levels are high and siltation of salmon spawning grounds has

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caused fish numbers to decline. This has been attributed to runoff from maize fields within the catchment and diffuse pollution from agriculture has also contributed to high BOD levels. Elevated phosphorus levels are mainly due to diffuse sources in the headwaters and point sources in the lower reaches (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Land use within the catchment is predominantly managed grassland, with a number of dairy farms in the area. Cereal production, including intensive maize growing, is concentrated in the eastern part of the catchment.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall ranges from 326-651mm p.a. throughout the catchment.


DWPA Projects

• The Axe and Char Enhancement Project is funded by Cycleau and run by FWAG. Other project partners include Dorset County Council, East Devon District Council, English Nature, the Environment Agency, the NFU and the Westcountry Rivers Trust. The project encourages farmers and fishermen in the local community to clean up the river, solving DWPA problems through better land management. Grants are available for farmers to undertake pollution prevention measures such as fencing off river banks, building housing for cattle, concreting cattle tracks, concreting around water troughs etc. The project is running from 2002-2006 and targets all farmers with a connection to the river via their land, though specific priority areas have been targeted first.

SALCOMBE TO KINGSBRIDGE ESTUARY



Salcombe to Kingsbridge estuary has been designated a SSSI for its rich and diverse intertidal and subtidal flora and invertebrate fauna. Sedimentation has been highlighted as a problem, as discolouration occurs following heavy rainfall. Bacteria in shellfish has previously been a problem at the site, although water quality is generally regarded as being good. Diffuse pollution from agriculture is thought to be the main cause of any water quality issues and recent algal problems have been linked to nitrates (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Farming within the catchment is mixed, with isolated areas of intensive arable production and extensive grassland coverage of over 60-100% in the upper reaches.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment ranges from 652-813mm p.a. in the upper half of the catchment, to 489-551mm p.a. in the lower reaches nearer the coast.



• Salcombe to Kingsbridge Estuary Environmental Management Plan is run by local authorities and includes elements of water quality management. No specific DWPA projects have been identified however.

SLAPTON LEY

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The Gara catchment is a ‘priority catchment’ due, primarily, to the presence of the Slapton Ley SSSI, the largest shallow freshwater coastal lake in south-west England. The lake is important for its aquatic macrophyte, bird and fish populations. The lake has, however, undergone substantial nutrient enrichment and extensive research has been carried out on this problem (EN, 2003).

Land-use

Agricultural land-use is predominantly pastoral although some areas of intensive cereal and vegetable production in the lower part of the catchment exist.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment ranges from up to approximately 975mm at the source of the river to under 500mm further downstream. The streams in the catchment, thus, respond quickly to rainfall with limited input from groundwater flows.


DWPA Projects

• The Slapton Cycleau Project is running in the catchment aimed at protecting Slapton Ley. Funded through the Cycleau programme, the project is run by FWAG but also involves South Hams District Council, English Nature, the Environment Agency, FSC and Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust. The project will address agricultural pollution as well as that from industry. The work is currently identifying issues in the catchment and how to address these. All farmers will receive mailshots and a farmer’s meeting was held in September 2004. Farm visits will be made and advice will be given to farmers on how to tackle DWPA.

STOVER PARK



Stover Park has been designated a SSSI for its rich diversity of invertebrates and aquatic macrophytes. There has, however, been a significant decline in both flora and fauna over the last ten years and water quality data indicate that the lake is mildly eutrophic. Runoff from agricultural feeder streams is a potential cause although point source sewage and industrial inputs are more likely to be the reason for this decline (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use is confined to the western and northern parts of the catchment. There is over 80% grassland coverage near the western boundary, but this reduces to less than 50% in other farmed areas. Arable land use has less than 30% coverage.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall across the majority of the catchment is 489-651mm p.a. There is, however, an area to the east that produces a lower amount of 326-488mm p.a.


• No DWPA activity has been found in this catchment.

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YEALM ESTUARY



Yealm estuary SSSI also coincides with Plymouth Sound and Estuaries cSAC and has been designated as such for its rich marine flora and fauna. Elevated siltation levels have been noted along with high nutrient levels and low dissolved oxygen and this has been attributed to diffuse agricultural sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use surrounding the Yealm estuary is predominantly grassland in the upper reaches of the catchment (over 60% land coverage) with less intensive farming in the lower reaches. Isolated small areas of intensive crop production exist near the central river channel.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the Yealm estuary catchment is high, with the headwaters producing 1303-1464m of runoff p.a. This decreases downstream towards the coast, where the lower middle and coastal areas produce approximately 500-800mm.


• No DWPA activity has been identified in this catchment.

Contacts for Devon

Mr Jonathan Whiteley, ADAS Organic Resource Management, Tel: 01902 693221, email: [email protected].

Mr Michael Ellingham, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (South West), NFU, Agriculture House, Pynes Hill, Rydon Lane, Exeter, Devon, EX2 5ST. Tel: 01392 440700, email: [email protected].

Mr Philip Moore, Devon Wildlife Trust, Shirehampton House, 35-37, St David’s Hill, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4DA. Tel: 01392 279244, email: [email protected].

Mr Ed Ferris, Slapton Cycleau Project Officer, Slapton Ley Field Centre, Slapton, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 2QP. Tel: 01548 581124.

Sally Hope-Johnson, Devon FWAG. Tel: 01392 352012

Mary Crocker, Devon FWAG, Cycleau Project Office Coordinator, Estuary House, Peninsula Park, Rydon Lane, Exeter, EX2 7XE. Tel: 01392 352014.

4.7.3 Dorset

CHESIL AND THE FLEET



The coastal waters at Chesil and the Fleet have been designated a SSSI, cSAC, SPA and Ramsar site for their lagoonal aquatic plants, invertebrates and fish. High nutrient levels have been linked to algal blooms and oxygen sags, thought to derive from diffuse pollution. The site is also designated as a ‘polluted water’ under the Nitrates Directive. The surrounding catchment is intensively farmed, with runoff from agricultural land having been identified as the most significant source of nitrates in winter and a

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significant source of phosphates throughout the year. Some input is also attributed to STW discharges (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment is intensively farmed, with 20-30% arable coverage and 60-70% managed grassland.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the coastal area surrounding Chesil and The Fleet is 326-488mm p.a.


DWPA Projects

• The Fleet Hinterland Project is run by FWAG, in conjunction with the EA, West Dorset County Council, Chesil Beach and the Fleet Nature Reserve. The aim is to raise awareness of diffuse pollution issues, through farm visits and the production of farm plans. A training day has been organised for local farmers.

FROME ST QUINTIN



Frome St Quintin valley mire habitat has been designated a SSSI for its flora and fauna. The site also falls within the West Dorset Alder Woods cSAC. There is evidence from the composition of the plant communities and poor tree health that excess levels of nutrients are entering the system (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The site is surrounded by agricultural land on chalk and Greensand comprising conventional intensive dairying and arable (maize) and an organic dairy with some arable. One dairy disposes of dirty water by spraying and slurry is also spread.



• The EA has planned to undertake a hydrogeological survey of the area and STW’s within the catchment have been targeted for improvement via the AMP programme. No specific DWPA activity has been identified.

General Farm Advice

• FWAG has carried out some nutrient budgeting within the catchment and is involved in general farm advisory visits, raising awareness of diffuse pollution as necessary.

POOLE HARBOUR



The coastal waters at Poole harbour have been designated a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar site for their intertidal marshes and mudflats, which support wintering wildfowl and waders. There is a proliferation of macro-algae, attributed to eutrophication. Nutrient associated water quality problems have been linked to shellfish mortalities at the site,

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which also impact invertebrate prey for birds and fish. Eutrophication at Poole Harbour is thought to mainly derive from diffuse agricultural sources within the surrounding catchment (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment is intensively farmed, with over 60% arable coverage near the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Poole Harbour is 326-488mm p.a.


• No activity has been identified in the catchment that aims to address DWPA.

REMPSTONE HEATHS



Rempstone Heaths has been designated a SSSI for its valley mire which comprises important habitat for Rhynchosporion. The site also falls within the Dorset Heaths and Studland Dunes cSAC. Evidence of nutrient enrichment exists. Water in the catchment originates from an area of agricultural land use and there are no known point sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Farming within the catchment comprises predominantly pasture land, athough some crop production also takes place away from the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Rempstone Heaths is 326-488mm p.a.



• The construction of a new pond to reduce nutrient levels has been proposed by English Nature. No specific DWPA activity has however been noted.

RIVER FROME



The River Frome has been designated a SSSI due to its decline in salmon stock. Elevated phosphorous levels have been noted within the catchment and attributed to diffuse agricultural sources. High sediment loads and siltation problems are also an issue, in particular relating to salmon spawning grounds (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment is intensively farmed, with ploughing on steep slopes in the upper catchment linked to sediment transport. Arable and intensive dairy farming are the main land uses and the production of maize is widespread.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall ranges from 489-651mm p.a. in the headwaters of the catchment, to 326-488mm p.a. nearer the coast.

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• AMP improvements to some STWs have been carried out in the catchment.


• The EA has promoted agri-environment schemes within the catchment, in particular the Countryside Stewardship Scheme.

• Nutrient budgeting has also been carried out by FWAG.

DWPA Projects

• The site will come under the recently launched WYECARE initiative, which aims to encourage best land management practice within the catchment, to reduce diffuse pollution.

• The Frome is included in NERC’s LOCAR project for sediment pathway modelling

STUDLAND AND GODLINGSTON HEATHS



The lake at Studland and Godlingston Heaths has been designated a SSSI. The site is also part of the Dorset Heaths and Studland Dunes cSAC, the Dorset Heathlands SPA and Ramsar site, as well as Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar site. The lake is oligotrophic, with few minerals in general, low N and relatively high P, suggesting that the ecosystem is N limited. The lake is considered to be highly vulnerable to pollution from diffuse sources (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Farming within the catchment comprises pasture land, though some crop production also takes place away from the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall at Rempstone Heaths is 326-488mm p.a.



• A macrophyte survey and chemical analysis has been undertaken as part of an EN lake restoration project.

• EA discharge consents within the catchment have also been reviewed.

• A survey of inflowing streams in the catchment has been undertaken to identify point and diffuse pollution risks. However, no specific DWPA activity has been identified.

TOLLER POCORUM



Toller Pocorum has been designated a SSSI for its wet woodland habitat. The site also falls within the West Dorset alder woods cSAC. Diffuse agricultural pollution has been linked to a negative effect on vegetation, for example alder die-back, although the

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impacts on plant communities in general and animals are largely unknown at this site. Water at the site is derived from the River Hooke which has poor water quality due to agricultural runoff (EN, 2003).


• No specific DWPA activity has been identified within the catchment.

Dorset Contacts

Clare Buckerfield, FWAG Dorchester. Tel: 01305 251742. Email [email protected]

4.7.4 Cornwall

FAL AND HELFORD



Fal and Helford Estuary has been designated a cSAC due to its sensitive and extensive flora and fauna. Parts of the system are subject to eutrophication and algal blooms periodically occur. Nutrient inputs to the Estuary are largely associated with agricultural runoff, though a peak from STW’s in summer does occur due to the tourist season (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The catchment is fairly intensively farmed, with the upland areas that receive higher rainfall being used for livestock and the central part of the catchment being a mixture of grassland and crop production.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall within the catchment is 489-651mm p.a. across the majority of the catchment. There are however headwater areas in the extreme east and west that produce 652-813mm p.a. and the area along the coastline typically a lower amount of 326-488mm p.a.


Stakeholder Groups

• The Helford Voluntary Marine Conservation Association is active within the catchment, working closely with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

• The Countryside Agency also has an AONB management plan in place.

DWPA Projects

• Fal and Helford Cycleau Project is currently running in the River Helford, run by FWAG. The project involves 20 farms and focuses on high-risk activities such as intensive dairy units and potato growing. Specific nutrient and soil management advice is provided. Capital grants are then available up to a maximum of £1k per farm to undertake mitigation measures such as fencing off streams, creating interception ponds, or improving dirty water storage. Farmers are also encouraged to join agri-environment schemes. Whole farm plans and soil sampling is undertaken as needed. The project plans to visit a further 30 farms over the next 2.5 years.

• A similar project has previously been undertaken by FWAG on the Fal River, although there were no capital grants available for farmers. FWAG has been

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heavily involved in the Fal catchment, undertaking 70 farm visits and whole farm plans over the last 3 years, as well as organising demonstration days in conjunction with local stakeholder organisations.

LOE POOL



Loe Pool SSSI is the largest freshwater lagoon in Cornwall, providing scarce habitat with rare plant and insect assemblages. The lake has become an algae dominated system, with severe vegetation changes having taken place, including the current lack of submerged macrophytes. Arable agriculture is the main land use within the catchment, although the eutrophication problems are thought to have originated from STW discharges (EN, 2003).

Land Use

The area surrounding Loe Pool is intensively farmed, with 80-100% grassland coverage in many parts of the upper catchment. Some arable production takes place nearer to the coast.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment ranges from 652-813mm p.a. in the headwaters, down to 326-488mm p.a. in the lower reaches by the coast.


General Farm Advice

• ADAS has previously produced whole farm management plans relevant to this catchment, on behalf of the National Trust.

• FWAG has heavy involvement in the area, providing farm visits on DWPA issues.

DWPA Projects

• The National Trust, who own the site, has been involved in a project looking at the use of buffer zones on farms to reduce the transport of sediment and associated diffuse pollutants.

• The Cornwall Rivers Trust has also worked in the catchment. Work done through this project, and through similar work by FWAG, has involved farm walks to study nutrient pathways.

• FWAG was involved in an EA and EN funded project in the Cober catchment which drains into Loe Pool (the project finished in 2003). FWAG visited 30 farms and provided advice on a variety of issues relevant to DWPA, for example, uptake of the CSS, Landfill Tax and river corridor management. The EA is now thought to be initiating a new ‘before and after’ monitoring regime on the Cober to gauge the environmental benefits of riverbank fencing.

TAMAR-TAVY ESTUARY



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The Tamar catchment has conservation sites including cSAC, SPAs, SSSIs. Diffuse nutrient inputs from agriculture have been highlighted as threatening these environments (English Nature, 2003).

Land-use

Arable agriculture in the Tamar catchment is minimal when compared to many of the other selected study catchments, making up less than 30% of land cover, and in much of the area less than 10%. In contrast, pasture makes up a highly significant proportion of land-use.

Hydrology

Runoff generation is particularly high in those areas of the catchment where igneous rocks make up the underlying geology (i.e. Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor), with some areas generating almost 1500 mm of effective rainfall. Less runoff is generated over most of the catchment although effective rainfall remains in the range of approximately 500-800 mm.


General Farm Advice

• FWAG undertakes farm visits in the area, in conjunction with the Westcountry Rivers Trust.

DWPA Projects

• The Westcountry Rivers Trust run the Cornwall Rivers Project, funded by the European Agriculture Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF) and Defra. Farmers can receive free advice and grants (40%) for environmental improvements from the Trust. As the farmers carry out the work they take ownership of the project. Examples of the work carried out include manure and inorganic fertiliser application advice, improved use of storm water and the installation of river bank fencing. The Tamar was covered by the project in 2000.

RIVER CAMEL



Species of key conservation importance are present within the River Camel SSSI and cSAC, including otters, atlantic salmon, sea lamprey and sea trout. Nutrient enrichment occurs within the headwaters of the catchment and this has been associated with agricultural practices such as fertiliser and slurry applications and other agrochemical use (EN, 2003).

Land Use

Agricultural land use is predominantly grassland in the upland areas to the east and arable in the lowland areas to the west.

Hydrology

Effective rainfall in the catchment headwaters exceeds 1465mm p.a. The north-eastern part of the catchment is an upland area typically receiving higher rainfall than the south and west, where effective rainfall is 489-651mm p.a.


DWPA Projects

• Some research work has been done by Plymouth University.

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• The Camel Valley Catchment Group Farm Project was the first of its kind to be set up ten years ago, through Cornwall Objective One funding. Run by FWAG, the project involved a general awareness campaign and farm advisory visits to tackle soil erosion and diffuse pollution issues.

Stakeholder Groups

• Activity within the catchment is largely co-ordinated by the Westcountry Rivers Trust and the South West Rivers Association, along with FWAG.

Contacts for Cornwall

Mr Jonathan Whiteley, ADAS Organic Resource Management, Tel: 01902 693221, email: [email protected].

Mr Michael Ellingham, Regional Environment and Land Use Advisor (South West), Agriculture House, Pynes Hill, Rydon Lane, Exeter, Devon, EX2 5ST. Tel: 01392 440700, email: [email protected].

Dr Dylan Bright, Director of Science, Westcountry Rivers Trust, Fore Street, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0AA. Tel: 01566 784488, email: [email protected].

Michelle Werrett, ADAS. Email: [email protected].

Annabel Keast, FWAG, Kerris House, Threemilestone Industrial Estate, Truro, Cornwall, TR4 9LD, Tel: 01872 224217

Mary Combe, Cornwall FWAG, FWAG Natural Environment, St Clements Building,

County Hall, Truro, Cornwall. Email [email protected]

South West summary

The South West region has extensive DWPA activity taking place in many areas, particularly in Somerset and Cornwall. Many of the priority catchment sites have already implemented some form of catchment sensitive farming programme. The Westcountry Rivers Trust and FWAG are key stakeholders throughout the region, with many projects providing advice to farmers and help with mitigation measures, as well as general awareness raising of diffuse pollution and conservation issues. The lack of activity identified at some sites is probably because many of the sites are particularly small and thus likely to be included in larger catchment management plans.

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5 References

DEFRA (1998). Code of Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Water. Defra, London, UK.

ENGLISH NATURE, (2003). Prioritising designated wildlife sites at risk from diffuse agricultural pollution, English Nature Research Report 551. English Nature, Peterborough, UK.

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY, (2000). Aquatic eutrophication in England and Wales: a management strategy. Environment Agency, Wallingford, UK.

HODGE, C.A.H., BURTON, R.G.O., CORBETT, W.M., EVANS, R. and SEALE, R.S. (1984). Soils and their use in Eastern England. Soil Survey and England and Wales Bulletin No.13.

JARVIS, R.A., BENDELOW, V.C., BRADLEY, R.I., CARROLL, D.M., FURNESS, R.R., KILGOUR, I.N.L and KING, S.J. (1984). Soils and their use in Northern England. Soil Survey of England and Wales Bulletin 10.

LORD, E.I and ANTHONY, S.G, (2000). MAGPIE: A modelling framework for evaluating nitrate losses at national and catchment scales. Soil Use and Management, 16, 167-174.

MAFF. (1998). Code of Good Agricultural Practise for the Protection of Water. MAFF, London.

PITT, J. (2001). Redgrave and Lopham Fens Nutrient Survey – Report of Pilot Project 1999-2000. Final report to English Nature.

RAGG, J.M, BEARD, G.R., GEORGE, H., HEAVEN, F.W., HOLLIS, J.M., JONES, R.J.A., PALMER, R.C., REEVE, M.J., ROBSON, J.D. and WHITFIELD, W.A.D. (1984). Soils and their use in Midland and Western England. Soil Survey of England and Wales Bulletin No.12.

WHEELER, B.D. and SHAW, S.C. (2000). Redgrave and Lopham Fens – The Effect of Increased Fertility Through Surface Water and Seepage on EC Habitats Directive Annex 1 Plant Communities. Report to English Nature.

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Appendices - Graphical presentation of catchment land use and runoff generation

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Appendix 1 – The North East Region

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Northumbria: Lindisfarne, River Coquet and Coquet Valley Woodlands, Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast and Tweed Catchment Rivers

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Hornsea Mere

85

River Derwent

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Appendix 2 – The North West

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Bassenthwaite Lake, River Derwent and Tributaries

88

Biglands Bog

89

Cliburn Moss

90

Cumwhitton Moss, Moorthwaite Moss

91

Newton Reigny Moss

92

Temple Sowerby Moss

93

Hawes Water, Leighton Moss

94

Appendix 3 – The East Midlands

95

Cressbrook Dale, Dove Valley and Biggin Dale, Lathkill Dale

96

River Eye

97

Birches Barn Meadows, Blackbrook Reservoir, Bradgate Park and Cropston Reservoir, River Blythe, River Mease

98

Hatfield Chase Ditches

99

Appendix 4 – West Midlands

100

River Lugg, River Teme, River Wye

101

Clarepool Moss

102

Fenemere

103

Fenn’s, Whixall, Betisfield, Wem and Cadney Mosses

104

Marton Pool

105

Sweat Mere and Crose Mere

106

Aqualete mere

107

Betley Mere

108

Black Firs and Cranberry Bog

109

Cop Mere

110

Appendix 5 – East Region

111

Flitwick Moor

112

Ouse Washes, Water End Swallow Holes, Weston Fen

113

Abberton Reservoir

114

Blackwater Estuary, Chippenham Fen, Colne Estuary, Crouch and Roach Estuaries, Hamford Water, Hanningfield Reservoir, Stour Estuary,

Hunsdon Mead

115

Rivers Bure, Waveney and Yare

116

River Wensum

117

Alde-Ore Estuary, Benacre to Easton Bevants, Blo Norton and Theltenham Fens, Deben Estuary, Orwell Estuary, Redgrave and Lopham Fens

118

Appendix 6 – South East

119

Combe Haven, Pevensey Levels, River Beult, Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes, The Swale and Walland Marsh

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River Avon System, River Itchen, River Kennet, River Lambourn, River Test, Standford End Mill and River Loddon

121

Chichester Harbour

122

Cothill Fen

123

Appendix 7 – South West

124

Bridgwater Bay, Chesil and The Fleet, Exe Estuary, Poole Harbour, Rempstone Heaths, River Axe, River Frome, Somerset Levels and Moors,

Studland and Godlingston Heaths

125

Erme Estuary, Salcombe to Kingsbridge Estuary, Slapton Ley, Yealm Estuary

126

Fal and Hereford, Loe Pool, River Camel and Tributaries, Tamar-Tavy Estuary

127

Stover Park

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