Catchment Partnerships

Working at catchment scale for all freshwaters

In our work at a catchment scale, we take account of all parts of the freshwater environment. From the smallest ponds and ditches to the biggest rivers and lakes: all have a major part to play in protecting freshwater biodiversity. Small waterbodies, such as headwater streams, ponds, ditches, and flushes are particularly important because – in most landscapes – they provide habitats for the widest variety of freshwater plants and animals, and are hotspots for endangered species. Research suggests that ponds could support as many as two-thirds of all freshwater plants and animals.

We work in partnership with many other organisations to share our expertise, and help people understand how best to protect freshwater wildlife, and the benefits of protecting the whole water environment.

We are active supporters of the Catchment-based Approach (CaBA) and sit on the National Support Group for CaBA.