This ambitious project brings together citizen science, collaborative working and education to identify, assess and protect ponds across the Howardian Hills, helping to build a better understanding of these important freshwater habitats and the wildlife they support.
The importance of ponds
Ponds may be small, but at their best they are bursting with freshwater life. Collectively, they support more species of macroinvertebrates and plants than lakes or rivers, including greater numbers of rare and uncommon species. But sadly, ponds are one of the UK’s most threatened freshwater habitats.
Ponds are an important part of the landscape of the Howardian Hills, providing a network of small freshwater habitats that can support wildlife across the area. However, we still have much to learn about where ponds are located, their condition and the species they support.
Through the project, we will identify, assess and protect ponds across the Howardian Hills, while also improving understanding of these vital habitats. Our work will include species surveys, water-quality testing and opportunities for local people to learn more about ponds, the wildlife they support and how they can be protected and managed.
Header photo © Tony Bartholomew
- Emerald Damselfly by T. Barton
Sign up to volunteer
Please use the form below to register your interest to volunteer for clean water and species surveys. We are also looking for landowners who have ponds that they would be happy for our team and volunteers to survey.
- Common Toad © Matt Lodge