Wetland

Wetland Habitat Action Plan: Incorporating rivers and streams, fen, marsh, swamp and linear Reedbed

INTRODUCTION:

“Wetlands occupy the transitional zone between permanently wet and generally dry environments. They share characteristics of both environments, yet can not be classified exclusively as either aquatic or terrestrial” (Finlayson & Moser, 1991). This definition covers a variety of habitats depending on hydrology and substrate type (see appendix 3). This habitat action plan covers rivers, streams, fen, marsh, swamp and linear reedbed, though this should be read in conjunction with other water dependant habitat action plans such as floodplain grazing marsh, open water and reedbed and woodland (Surrey Biodiversity Partnership). The habitat types covered in Local Biodiversity Action Plans follow guidance from the UK Biodiversity Steering Group (The UK Steering Group Report, HMSO, 1995). Where habitats have been amalgamated this has been undertaken to reflect local character. In this instance it was deemed appropriate that expansive reedbeds should be taken account of within the Surrey Open Water and Reedbed Habitat Action Plan. This is due to the lack of expansive reedbeds in the county and those which do exist occurring in close association with open water habitat.

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            2. DEFINITION
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1.1. Rivers and streams

In their natural state rivers are dynamic systems, continually modifying their form. However in many cases their ability to rejuvenate and create new habitat has been reduced or arrested by flood defence structures and impoundments. Those rivers that have not been significantly modified represent a very valuable ecological resource. Channelisation and the removal of tree cover in historic times have also caused the erosion of riverbanks. Such activities have resulted to changes in the frequency and magnitude of flooding. In addition flow regulation has altered patterns of sediment transport and nutrient exchange in river systems. Any resulting eutrophication can have detrimental effects upon floodplain habitat which still retains some connection with the main stream.

The mosaic of features found in rivers and streams support a diverse range of plants and animals, for example, riffles and pools support aquatic species such as mayflies and exposed sediments such as shingle beds and sandbars are important for a range of invertebrates, notably ground beetles, spiders and craneflies. Marginal and bankside vegetation support an array of wildflowers and animals. Rivers and streams often provide a wildlife corridor link between fragmented habitats in intensively farmed or urban settings.

The plant and animal assemblages of rivers and streams vary according to their geographical location, underlying geology and water quality. Swift flowing upland, nutrient poor rivers support a wide range of mosses and liverworts and relatively few species of higher plants. Stoneflies, mayflies and caddisflies are the predominant macroinvertebrate fauna, whilst fish such as atlantic salmon Salmo salar and brown trout Salmo trutta dominate the vertebrate fauna. In contrast, higher plants and coarse fish such as chub Leuciscus cephalus, dace Leuciscus leuciscus, barbel Barbus barbus and roach Rutilus rutilus dominate lowland nutrient rich systems. Where nutrient levels are artificially raised, the occurrence of algae increases. Chalk streams are of particular note, having a characteristic plant community, often dominated in mid-channel by river water-crowfoot Ranunculus sp. and starworts Callitriche sp. and along the margins by watercress Rorrippa Nasturtium-aquaticum and lesser water-parsnip Berula erecta. They have low banks, which support a range of water loving plants. Britain has some of the best examples of this type of river habitat in Europe.

1.2. Wetlands

Associated with rivers are a variety of wetland habitats. These contain facets of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats but cannot be exclusively classified as either. Such habitats include topogenous fen, marsh, swamp and linear reedbed. These are dependent upon periodic inundation or elevated ground water levels in hydrological continuity to the river.

1.3. Fens

Fens are peatlands that receive water and nutrients from soil, rock and ground water as well as rainfall. Two types of fen can be distinguished, topogenous and soligenous. Topogenous fens are those where water movements in the soil and peat are generally vertical. They include basin fens and floodplain fens. Soligenous fens occur where water movements are predominately lateral and include valley mires, springs and flushes. Many of these habitats are also associated with heathland.

1.4. Swamp

Swamp is characterised by water table levels that are at or above the surface of the vegetation for much of the year. In comparison to fens, swamps have species-poor vegetation. The term marsh is ill defined but usually refers to vegetation occurring on mineral soil that has a water table close to the surface for most of the year, but not usually above ground level.

1.5. Linear Reedbed

Linear reedbeds in this context are beds of emergent vegetation including common reed and sedge opposite open water of no more than one metre in width. Expansive reedbeds will be covered in the Surrey Open Water and Reedbed HAP.

1.6. Mire

Mires are generally peat accumulating habitats and may include fen and bog. These habitats often occur together with areas of open water, linear reedbeds, ditches, wet grassland, wet heath and carr. Detailed definitions of these habitats are found in Appendix 3.

BIODIVERSITY OF WETLANDS IN SURREY

1.7 Flora

Wetlands provide habitat for a variety of flora including the nationally rare black poplar Populus nigra of which the lower Thames has been targeted within the national species action plan. A nationally scarce species which is locally common especially on the River Mole is the greater dodder Cuscuta europaea. Though apparently not requiring damp conditions it parasitises both nettle and hop found on riverbanks.

More traditional groups of wetland species include the sedges Carex sp. of which the nationally scarce elongated sedge Carex elongata can be found within Surrey. Other groups include the various types of water crowfoot. Many of the species of water crowfoot are good indicators of water quality and quantity.

1.8 Mammals

The otter Lutra lutra disappeared as a breeding species in Surrey many years ago. A national recovery programme is underway which in Surrey comprises the Surrey Otters and Rivers project. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan target is to restore breeding otters to all catchments where they have been recorded since 1960 by 2010. The Surrey Mammal Project has identified that the American mink Mustela vison is now widespread throughout Surrey. It is thought to be a significant factor in the decline of water vole Arvicola terrestris populations, which have become increasingly fragmented in tandem with the destruction of suitable habitat.

Otters and water voles are the mammal species most commonly associated with rivers and wetlands. Handbooks are available regarding their distribution and conservation. Other species include the water shrew Neomys fodians, which frequents well vegetated banks bordering swiftly flowing streams and rivers, watercress beds, drainage ditches pond edges and reedbeds. Individuals require a suitable bank in which to burrow and a combination of lush terrestrial and aquatic vegetation on which to graze.

Most bats are found near wetlands and watercourses. The most closely associated is Daubenton’s bat Myotis daubentonii, which feeds almost exclusively over water, using trees and bridges as summer roosts.

1.9 Birds

The importance of wetlands to waders and wildfowl is referred to in Surrey’s Floodplain Grazing Marsh and Open Water and Reedbed Habitat Action Plans. Waders and wildfowl are often associated with larger wetland complexes, but smaller wetlands and linear sites are also important. For example, yellow wagtails Moticcilla flava which have declined in recent years can be found using the margins of smaller wetlands. Reed warblers Acrocephalus scirpaceus require wetlands edges where there is a good growth of emergent aquatic vegetation such as common reed Phragmites communis and reedmace Typha sp. in which to nest.

1.10 Amphibians and Reptiles

Though the common frog Rana temporaria, common toad Bufo calamita, smooth newt Titurus vulgaris, great-crested newt Triturus cistatus and palmate newt Triturus helveticus all utilise a variety of wetland habitats, a number of general principles have been observed. With regard to breeding sites, amphibians are found in a variety of water bodies of sizes ranging from 0.5m2 to 2,000,000m2. They are less frequent in ponds shallower than 0.5m and avoid extremes of vegetation cover. Generally, they are less frequent if there is no submerged or emergent vegetation, or if that vegetation covers over 75% of its surface.

The National Common Reptile Survey identified that 29% of grass snake Natrix natrix records occurred within wetlands. Grass snakes require a mosaic of tall vegetation for foraging and cover, short vegetation for basking and sites for egg-laying and hibernating.

1.11 Fish

Although the bullhead Cottus gobio has a fairly widespread distribution throughout England and Wales, this is not the case across Europe and consequently it is listed under Annex II of the Habitat Directive. This species is also a good indicator of habitat quality requiring unmodified headwaters, streams and small weirs with a stony bed and woody debris.

Brook lampreys Lampetra planeri are found throughout Surrey. This one of three species of lamprey found in Britain. Unlike any other fish species they do not have jaws, instead having an oral disc with a few blunt teeth. They are vulnerable to water quality change and river engineering, which is reflected by all three species being listed under Annex II of the European Union Habitats Directive. The brook lamprey inhabits small streams, usually in the upper reaches of rivers. The larvae burrow in mud and dense weed beds. The adults do not migrate to the sea. (Wheeler, 1992).

1.12 Invertebrates

The native crayfish Austropotambius pallipes prefers alkaline water, but is relatively widespread throughout England and Wales. It is found in small streams, rivers and stillwaters, being found within crevices in rocks, gaps between stones, submerged plants, and tree roots. The species is vulnerable to changes in water quality and quantity, though the spread of the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusulus and the subsequent spread of the crayfish plague have caused the Surrey population to become increasingly fragmented. The strongest populations in the county are now found in the headwaters of the River Wey and upper catchment of the River Eden.

There are numerous species of invertebrates associated with the rivers and wetlands of Surrey. It is one of the most important English counties for dragonflies and damselflies with 28 breeding species. The banded demoiselle Calopteryx splendens, the beautiful demoiselle C. virgo and the white-legged damselfly Platycnemis pennipes are all typical of Surrey’s rivers, whilst the scarce chaser Libellula fulva has recently been found in the county. Other species have a wide habitat tolerance and frequent a range of aquatic habitats including rivers, in Surrey this includes the downy emerald Cordulia aenea and the brilliant emerald Somatochlora metallica. See table 1 for examples of typical dragonfly and damselfly species of Surrey’s rivers and wetlands.

Ruddy darter Sympetrum sanguineum is one of the few odonata species restricted to marsh or swamp, however there is a rich invertebrate fauna reliant on this habitat. This includes beetles (e.g. mint leaf beetle Chrysolina menthastri and flea beetle Chaetocnema subcoerulea, flies (e.g. hoverfly Neoascia tenur), spiders (e.g. Clubiona phragmitis) weevils (e.g. Tapinotus sellatus), bugs (e.g. Cymus aurescens), bees (e.g. Macropis europaea) and moths (e.g. bulrush wainscot Nonagria typhae).

Table 1. Typical dragonfly and damselfly species of Surrey’s rivers and wetlands

Species Distribution in Surrey Banded demoiselle Calopteryx splendens A widespread species of muddy slow flowing streams with abundant marginal vegetation. Tolerant of some pollution. Occurrs on most waterways in the county.

Beautiful demoiselle Calopteryx virgo Found on faster flowing streams with gravel substrates. Commonest in the west of the county on the River Wey and tributaries. Disappeared from the River Mole in the 1960’s due to deteriorating water quality but has recently recolonised. White-legged damselfly Platycnemis pennipes Confined to sluggish rivers with reasonable water quality. Common on the River Wey Navigation and also found on the River Mole, River Eden and a tributary of the River Arun. Scarce chaser Libellula fulva A nationally rare species of muddy lowland rivers. It has recently been confirmed to be breeding in the River Wey on the Hants/Surrey border. Downy emerald Cordulia aenea A nationally local species but a Surrey speciality. Found in diverse habitats including tree lined slow moving rivers e.g. River Wey. Brilliant emerald Somatochlora metallica Another Surrey speciality, rarer than the downy emerald but found in similar habitats including the River Wey and Eden Brook. Ruddy darter Sympetrum sanguinum Widespread and apparently increasing across the county. The larvae are associated with stands of bulrush Typha spp., horsetail Equisetum spp. and burr-reed Sparganium spp.

2. CURRENT DISTRIBUTION AND STATUS

The UK is thought to contain a large proportion of the surviving resource within the EU. As in other parts of Europe wetland vegetation has declined dramatically in the past century. Because of the dynamic nature of these habitats and the difficulty in describing some of the communities it will not be possible to precisely detail the extent of each habitat type. What can be achieved is describing the status of the mosaic of wetland habitats.

2.1 Statutory Recognition

Signatories to the international Ramsar Convention (1971) are obliged to designate and conserve wetlands of international importance, especially those of importance for waterfowl habitat.

The Bern Convention in addition to the principle aim of ensuring the conservation of flora, fauna and their habitats, seeks to encourage co-operation between contacting parties and to direct particular attention to endangered and vulnerable species, including migratory species.

The aim of the Bonn Convention or the ‘Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals’ is to provide strict protection for a number of listed migratory species in danger of extinction in all or part of their range.

The EU Birds Directive (1979) requires habitat conservation for listed threatened bird species through the designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs). SPA species include bittern and kingfisher.

The EU Habitats Directive (1992) aims to establish, by the year 2000, a network of protected areas designed to maintain the distribution and abundance of threatened species and habitats. This network, Natura 2000, will comprise of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

The EU Birds Directive and EU Habitats Directive are translated into UK legalisation through the Nature Conservation Regulations 1994 (or Habitat Regulations).

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, with the aim of identifying and protecting sites which represent the best examples of all the natural habitats found within the UK. Additional protection is afforded under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000).

SSSI sites are also protected under byelaws made under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975, whereby certain sites designated by English Nature have a statutory closed fishing season enforced by the Environment Agency.

In compliance with the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992 Rio Earth Summit) the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) lays out national strategies for the protection and sustainable use of biodiversity. Threatened habitats and species in need of individual Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPS) have been identified, including numerous species associated with rivers and floodplains, such as the otter and water vole.

2.2 In Surrey

Rivers and streams The main river catchments that occur in the Surrey are the Thames, Blackwater, Wey, Mole, Hogsmill, and Colne. Though all of these rivers can be classified as lowland rivers with shallow gradients and a rich geology, a rich variety of sub-types occur within the county.

Though precise figures are not known for the extent of wetland habitats within Surrey, a significant number of Surreys 689 existing SNCI sites which cover 13096 ha, or 7.8% of the county, contain wetland features. The most extensive network of wetland habitats are associated with river floodplains, the richest being the floodplain of the River Wey. Springlines at geological interfaces represent a relatively small but valuable and fragile resource. The greensand in the upper Wey valley produces a mosaic of valuable wetland habitats. Other springs such as those on the Bagshot beds are associated with mire communities, the majority of these being associated with heathland. The South East England Biodiversity Audit specifies there to be 650km of river within Surrey and 55km of canal (Cloughly and Wicks 1998).

Table 2. River Types in Surrey.

River Sub-types CATCHMENTS Colne Wey Mole Blackwater Thames Hogsmill Fast-flowing coarse bedded lowland river of low gradient X X X Lowland, very low gradient rivers with fine substrate. X X Clay rivers with diverse substrates and flow patterns. X X Chalk/oolite streams and high base flow rivers. X X Base-rich/neutral impoverished rivers. Base-poor impoverished ditch communities. X X Small lowland, base-rich sand rivers. X

Based on Holmes (1996). Please note that there are no equivalent riverine National Vegetation Classification plant communities.

Surrey’s Wetland Habitats by Natural Area

The Wealden Greensand Natural Area

The Natural Area follows the outcrop of upper and lower Greensand. Associated with the Natural Area are several river valleys, most notably the Wey in Surrey. These valleys support a series of wetland habitat types of important wildlife value, including fen, linear reedbed and wet woodland. Many of these wetland habitats are now small in size and fragmented. However, in association with other semi-natural habitats, such as floodplain grazing marsh, they provide an important wildlife resource. Nationally important sites featuring wetland habitat include Wey Valley Meadows SSSI and Charterhouse to Eashing SSSI.

The London Basin Natural Area

The distribution of wetland habitats in the Surrey part of the London Basin Natural Area is largely attributed to the floodplain of the River Thames catchment. Wetland losses have been high and sites that have retained a wetland interest have probably survived because they could not easily be drained or reclaimed for cultivation. Wetland habitats include floodplain fens, wet flushes and marshes. Associated with canals and open bodies of water are areas of reedbed and linear wetlands representing a rapid transition from aquatic to terrestrial habitat, for example as observed with the Basingstoke Canal SSSI.

The Low Weald Natural Area

This area is criss-crossed by a network of main rivers and tributaries with a variety of characteristics from wide and open banked rivers with fringing marginal vegetation to tiny shaded woodland streams. Running water habitats and their associated wetland fringes of damp meadows, wet woodland and fen or marsh, are an important component of the character and ecology of the Low Weald.

Table 3. Nationally important wetland sites within Surrey.

NAME CATCHMENT TOTAL AREA (ha)* Basingstoke Canal Blackwater and Wey 99.2 Charleshill Wey 13.3 Charterhouse to Eashing Wey 66.8 Moor Park Wey 7.0 Langham Pond Thames 25.9 Papercourt Wey 69.4 Hedgecourt Medway 29.5

*Not all of the area comprises wetland habitat, but all of the above sites are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

3. FACTORS AFFECTING WETLAND HABITATS

Ultimately the predominant factors effecting wetlands are changes in water quality and quantity, and usually this takes the form of drainage. Historically this drainage was to facilitate agricultural improvement. The extent of the loss of wetlands in Surrey is not known, though the decline is believed to be considerable. This is borne out by the examination of old maps and place names, and the present rarity of these habitats. There are many interconnected activities that impact directly or indirectly on the various habitats. These include amongst others:

Development

• Excessive groundwater and surface water abstraction, for either the public water supply or part of dewatering operations, which may lead to a site drying out, or result in fluctuating water levels; • The physical destruction of a habitat as part of a development. This includes housing, urbanisation, roads, pipelines and lake and pond creation; • Changes in hydrology due to adjacent developments, such as the reduction in groundwater recharge or loss of floodplain. This can result in not only loss of water quality but change in water chemistry and wetland function; • Mill impoundment that modifies channel flora and fauna and inhibits upstream migration the upstream migration of animals, in particular fish species.

Agricultural Change

• Channel modifications for flood defence, land drainage or navigation, which changes the hydrology of the adjacent land. This can take the form of river channelisation or the inappropriate operation of river structures; • Fragmentation of habitats due to developments and their related infrastructure. This can reduce the viability to undertake the required agricultural management, such as the coppicing of alder and impact on the colonisation of species such as otter; • Habitat destruction as part of agricultural improvement. This can take the form, of land drainage, and the application of herbicides and pesticides; • Afforestion can lead to changes in site hydrology by increasing transpiration rates in the summer which leads to the drying out of adjacent areas in the vicinity; • Habitat degradation due to the lack of appropriate management. Lack of grazing can lead to the development of carr, which can result in further drying; • Overgrazing can result in the loss of botanical diversity and impact on ground nesting birds.

Water Quality Change

• Point source discharges impacting upon water quality. This usually takes the form of elevated phosphate levels from sewage treatment works, which can lead to eutrophication. The quality of such discharges is regulated by the EA via the discharge consent process; • Contaminants in surface water run-off such as hydrocarbons, phosphates, nitrates and an array of pesticides may arise from agricultural inputs or urban surface water drainage. These can locally change water chemistry or directly effect communities, leading over a period of time to the degradation of a site.

Invasive Alien Species

• Non-native invasive species such as signal crayfish, American mink, red-eared terrapins Trachemys scripta, floating pennywort Hydrocotyle ranuculoides and New Zealand stonecrop Crassula helmsii, may either impact on a particular native species through predation and competition, or may dominate a community resulting in the loss of biodiversity.

Recreation

• Increased recreation pressure may lead to increased disturbance and in some cases physical damage e.g. the effect of wash from powered boats upon open water bodies; • Insensitive fisheries management such as excessive stocking and weed cutting.

Climate Change

• Climate change including drought and associated higher temperatures which shorten the groundwater recharge period and increase evaporation can have an impact on water quantity and in turn places serious pressures upon particular species.

4. IMPORTANCE TO PEOPLE AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

To most people the term marsh or swamp conjures up an image of a treacherous, foul smelling place, that swallows up the unwary, is a breeding ground of all kinds of biting insects which inflict festering wounds and harbour stagnant water that spreads disease. Add to this a general fear of the unknown and traditional suspicions, and it is easy to understand how such a modern stereotype arises leading to the view that these areas are best avoided and preferably drained and 'improved'. However this belies the importance that such habitats traditionally had through contributing a variety of foods and raw materials to sustain and enhance the lives of local people and those living further afield.

Marshes fens and swamps were the places where our ancestors found their water, food, medicines and even building materials. One need only look at the locational preference of early settlements on dry ground close to such habitats. Wild duck, snipe and fish would provide a plentiful harvest, whilst Culpepper’s seventeenth century herbal reveals the medicinal use of many wetland plants. Additionally, meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria and fleabane Pulicaria dysenterica would be used as strewing herbs to sweeten the house and deter fleas, whilst many a home was lit by rush lights before the widespread availability of cheap candles, with rush seated chairs or baskets woven from bulrush. Areas not drained for agricultural improvement were often retained on larger estates for game shooting purposes.

Such habitats also gave rise to many Surrey place names such as the –fleet and –sey endings in Byfleet, Chertsey, Molesey; or the Moors areas to the east and west of Reigate.

5. BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY AND PRIVATE SECTOR

Rivers and wetlands can be a focal point for community activity. Local groups are involved in habitat management and environmental monitoring of river waters report on pollution events. Many more people interact with wetlands either informally as walkers or partaking in recreational pursuits such as angling. These interactions can provide people with a sense of wellbeing and improve their physical health by providing an open space in which to walk.

Wetlands with their great diversity of species provide excellent out door classrooms, and with the development of biotic indices enable children to monitor the quality of their local environment and as such gain a better understanding of broader environmental issues.

Retaining high biodiversity is essential to maintain the sensitivity of water quality monitoring, which in turn is needed to protect human health. For example the issue of pesticides in drinking water was first highlighted with the demise of otters in the early 1960’s. If habitat quality becomes the limiting factor in determining levels of biodiversity then it, may delay the observation of new trends. Above all, biodiverse wetlands are a key test of sustainable development in the county.

Wetlands are also an important commercial asset, for example angling is an important industry provider of jobs and providing funds for the regulation and monitoring of rivers. Wetlands also are important as a flood protection asset protecting millions of pounds worth of properties. They are also important in treating diffuse sources of pollution and can aid aquifer recharge.

6. POTENTIAL

There is considerable potential for wetland conservation and re-creation in Surrey. This may include small scale projects to large projects reconnecting existing isolated sites. This is particularly important and is included in Regional Planning Guidance Policy E2 where the development plans should cover areas of potential for nature conservation.

Sites with peat can be restored even if the site has been partially infilled. Though this is dependent upon the available seed-bank remaining available in the peat. Where peat has been removed, the potential to restore is greatly reduced, but is still valuable.

Where drying has occurred, this can sometimes be remedied by blocking ditches to retain water on site. Though where a site has suffered from chronic drying, this can sometimes result in the alteration of peat structure, and can reduce the likelihood of complete restoration. If the cause of drying can be identified as being due to over abstraction there is the facility to alter the abstraction water.

Lakes which have watercourses flowing through them have potential for creating new swamp areas. This is because the rate of siltation within the lake is greatly increased due to the sediments carried in the watercourse depositing in the lake areas. All open waters will silt up and are potential sites for swamp creation, though the process in waterbodies not being fed by watercourses is greatly reduced.

Considerable potential for wetland habitat reinstatement and indeed creation exists through restoration of mineral workings. The booklet ‘Biodiversity and Minerals, extracting the benefits for wildlife’ produced jointly by English Nature and the Quarry Producers Association, details such opportunities. Clearer targeting of ‘end restorations’ to meet HAP objectives would help such potential to be realised.

To identify and prioritise areas for restoration, the following guidance can be used:

• The area should preferably be adjacent to an existing wetland habitat of SSSI or SNCI quality; • The area should preferably link areas of existing wetland habitat, forming links with fragmented areas; • The resources for long-term ‘sustainable’ management should be secured; • The area should have previously sustained a wetland area, with suitable hydrological conditions to support the target habitat. • The area should not put other habitats of conservation importance at risk, examples being carr and wet grassland; • Where wetland restoration can contribute to the sustainable management of floodwater

Where the biodiversity of rivers have been degraded due to poor water quality and over abstraction, once these problems have been resolved through the appropriate investment, the ecological improvement is often rapid. Habitats can also be restored through riffle creation, the installation of deflectors and the re-instatement of backwaters. For heavily degraded rivers complete restoration can be undertaken to good effect.

7. CURRENT ACTION

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   3. Protection and legal status
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England has designated 74 Ramsar sites since 1971, most of these being estuaries or reservoirs which support large numbers of migratory wildfowl. Thirty of the Ramsar sites in England comprise of freshwater site habitats. England contains 78 Special Protection Areas (SPAs) of which 18 are freshwater.

Of nearly 4,000 SSSIs notified in England, around one third are freshwater sites, sixty-five being canal related. Within Surrey’s 63 SSSI sites, eight contain water and wetland habitats covering an area of 1082.97 ha.

Habitats targeted in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan include chalk streams, rivers and streams, floodplain grazing marsh, fen, carr, marsh, swamp and reedbed.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) is the primary legislation by which English Nature can protect designated sites (Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserves), and priority species (native crayfish, otter).

Protection for SSSIs and species was increased under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000).

The Environment Agency (EA) has duties to control water pollution and abstraction, regulate waste and atmospheric pollution and carry out water quality monitoring on rivers. Consent must be gained from the EA for a variety of activities including the stocking of fish, works affecting the bed and bank of a main river and the use of herbicides adjacent to watercourses. The EA is committed to integrating and promoting nature conservation through its work.

The Government has provided various forms of guidance on floodplain issues in relation to development planning. This is summarised in the EA ‘Policy and Practice for the Protection of Floodplains’. The overall aim of the EAs flood defence floodplain policies is to secure, and where necessary, restore the effectiveness of floodplains for flood defence and environmental purposes. Other legislation enables the designation of Water Protection Zones and sensitive areas where phosphate stripping must be carried out at sewage outflows.

The duties of Water Companies with respect to nature conservation are set out in the Water Act 1989.

MAFF /DEFRA are responsible for policy and regulation relating to reducing farm pollution, promoting the safe use of pesticides, control of introduction of some non-native species and promoting agri-environment schemes such as Countryside Stewardship and Environmentally Sensitive Areas. MAFF/FRCA DEFRA also oversees the production of Water Level Management Plans, aimed at integrating the water level requirements of a range of activities within the hydrological unit. The recently introduced LERAP (Local Environment Risk Assessment of Pesticides) regulation replaces the former restrictions related to buffer zones adjacent to water bodies. Operators are now legally required to leave an appropriate buffer zone when spraying close to water bodies.

Local planning authorities have a duty to notify areas of land of nature conservation value, as second tier sites of local or regional interest. This notification enables better protection of a site where its importance may be taken into consideration when a development proposal is submitted. Many authorities now have policies on floodplain protection and river corridors, which protects wetland sites from the indirect impacts of development, as set out in PPG25: Development in the Floodplain.

The Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) project aims to identify sites of county or regional wildlife importance, being a non-statutory selection that complements the Sites of Special Scientific Interest Series (SSSI) as administered by English Nature. Specialist ecological surveyors have been employed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust using local authority funding to survey a diverse array of habitats throughout Surrey. To date almost 13% of the county has been covered by this project. Sites deemed to be of importance are assessed against a strict set of criteria and undergo the scrutiny of the Surrey Nature Conservation Liaison Group before SNCI selection. SNCI sites are included within District and Borough Local Plans and enable planning departments to take wildlife issues into account alongside other planning considerations.

The minerals industry through nature conservation restorations, already make a contribution to biodiversity. Working in partnership with the Mineral Planning Authority (Surrey County Council) through its environmental enhancement initiatives, HAPs and SAPs are being incorporated into restoration schemes. The County Council is currently in the process of producing a restoration and enhancement strategy which seeks to further focus and context delivery of the Surrey Biodiversity Action Plan.

There remains concern over the working of fen and bog type habitats to produce peats for the commercial horticultural and amateur market gardening. Surrey County Council was the first local authority in Britain to sign the Peat Charter, prohibiting the use of peat by the County Council in its activities and promoting the use of alternative materials. Small deposits of peat exist in Surrey but through the Surrey Minerals Local Plan (Policy 24) there is a presumption against the working of such deposits. The 11 Borough & District Councils could also sign up to the Peat Charter, and through the Agenda 21 process encourage the public to use alternative growing mediums and raise awareness of the value of peat bog habitats and the damage the use of peat thereby has in biodiversity terms.

Other bodies involved with the management and regulation of the UK freshwater resource include OFWAT, British Waterways, Internal Drainage Boards, Broads Authority, National Park Authorities, Inland Waterways Association, Countryside Agency, land-owning bodies such as the National Trust, Forest Enterprise, as well as private land managers and their representatives including the Country Land and Business Association and the National Farmers Union.

1. 1. Management

English Nature (EN) is committed to securing sustainable management of SSSIs in partnership with land managers and relevant statutory bodies. This is being achieved through the preparation of Site Management Statements (SMS), supported, where appropriate by management agreements.

EN’s Species Recovery Programme and Biodiversity Grants Scheme provide funding for projects which will benefit rare and endangered species with the aim of actively promoting their prospects through re-introduction and or habitat management to aid recovery and natural re-colonisation.

The EA when undertaking river management work follows the standards set down in ‘Flood Defence Conservation Requirements’ manual. The standards are set to enable flood defence maintenance operations to be undertaken in a manner which minimises impacts on wildlife, and promotes good husbandry, such as the pollarding of willows, which has benefits for flood defence, wildlife and landscape. The quality of the work is audited on a regular basis. Further to this the EA will seek to work in partnership to establish management Strategies as with the River Ash Project, and undertake river habitat improvement schemes for example the riffle creation schemes undertaken on the Wey.

The Environment Agency has been engaged in writing Water Level Management Plans for water dependent SSSIs adjacent to Main River. A plan is a written statement, providing continuity and stability in site management which, by identifying opportunities, can help fulfil the duty placed on the operating authorities to further conservation. Ideally, plans should be prepared for all areas which have a conservation interest where the control of water levels is important to the maintenance or rehabilitation of the interest of the site.

Countryside Stewardship is a DEFRA grant scheme, which is available throughout Surrey. It offers payments to farmers and other land managers to conserve and enhance the landscape and its associated wildlife and cultural history, and to help people enjoy the countryside. The scheme offers 10-year management agreements with annual management payments and a wide range of capital grants. In order to ensure that the available funds are spent to the maximum benefit, Surrey has a target statement aimed at identifying specific areas or types of land where key environmental objectives can be best delivered. The main mechanism for addressing the way the scheme meets biodiversity priorities and commitments is through the county targeting and liaison meetings, which take place annually. River valleys in Surrey have been targeted and there has been a steady uptake of agreements over the life of the scheme. The type of work funded includes the implementation of appropriate grazing regimes, ditch restoration, fencing, wetland creation, and buffer zones.

The Organic Aid Scheme was introduced by MAFF (now DEFRA) in 1994 in order to aid farmers wishing to convert land to organic production. The legal authority for the scheme is Council regulation (EEC) 2078/92 (the ‘Agri-environment’ Regulation) and the Organic Aid Regulations 1994. MAFF and the European Community jointly fund the scheme. Further advice and information can be obtained by contacting the Organic Helpline on 0117 922 7707.

There are various river valley projects within the county, for example The Wey Valley Project, Lower Mole Countryside Management Project, Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service, and Groundwork Thames Valley. The aims of these projects include advising on management and restoration of wetland habitats, providing advice on grant availability, organising volunteer activities and promoting the sustainable integration of wildlife conservation into everyday farming practice.

Sympathetic owners and managers such as The Surrey Wildlife Trust, the National Trust, the Basingstoke Canal Authority and angling clubs also undertake management, benefiting biodiversity. For example Surrey Wildlife Trust own and manage 29 reserves which includes Hedgecourt SSSI, described as the most important example of wetland habitat in South East Surrey. This land often has a long history of sensitive management and is so especially valuable in ecological and heritage terms. Also, non-governmental and voluntary organisations can purchase sensitive areas to conserve and protect the resident wildlife interest.

The Surrey Wildlife Trust employs a Mammal Officer, who is involved in monitoring the local status of riparian mammals including water vole, water shrew, and American mink. A database has been developed and a series of management plans are being developed to protect and enhance key populations. Working alongside the Mammal Officer is the Otters and Rivers Officer. The main objective of this post is to ensure a recovery for the otter by means of natural re-colonisation. A network of artificial holts have been constructed along the Wey and Mole and scrub planting schemes completed.

The EA are producing Local Environment Agency Plans (LEAPS) for all river catchments in the county. They are intended to replace Catchment Management Plans and will reflect the wide range of activities that the EA is involved in.

The EA has submitted its proposals for the National Environment Programme for the water companies for the period 2000-2005. This submission forms part of the Asset Management Plan (AMP3) process and represents the Agencies opportunity to secure necessary environmental investment from the water companies, to resolve water quality problems and over-abstraction.

The management of impacts from urban development on hydrology, through changing surface run-off, groundwater infiltration and flow disruption is essential to protect adjacent sites. The forms that this can take are the construction of balancing areas with reedbeds to regulate both water quality and quantity. An excellent example of this is the reedbed creation as part of the Blackwater Valley Road development. Further examples of good practice can be found in the EA document ‘Enhancing the Environment: 25 Case Studies from Thames’.

Rivers act as wildlife corridors and the spread of invasive alien species can represent a significant threat to native biodiversity. The species of concern in Surrey, include, floating pennywort, signal crayfish, mink, Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica, New Zealand stonecrop and giant hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum. With Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed, effective control methods have been identified, that must be targeted to key sites. Where populations of these species have been found to be causing significant problems next to a main river the EA is seeking to undertake control measures, and a trial database identifying the location of these species is being set up.

The EA has also recently developed a fisheries strategy for the river Wey in partnership with the Wey Valley Fisheries Consultative Association. The key objective in the strategy is to develop a working policy that co-ordinates fisheries best practises with a view to protecting and enhancing native fish stocks and habitats.

River corridors have increasingly become important for informal recreation. To balance the various pressures between access and biodiversity, strategies similar to those developed on the Blackwater by the Blackwater Valley Recreation and Countryside Management Service have proved to be very valuable.

There have been several species initiatives associated with floodplains. These include work on the otter, water vole and barn owl. One of the longest running projects has been the Thames Salmon Rehabilitation Scheme, which is aiming to establish a self-sustaining population to the river. To help adults on their journey upstream, fish passes will have been constructed on all twenty of the weirs on the lower Thames by the end of 1999. A further 17 passes are currently being built on the Kennet with funding from the Thames Salmon Trust, EA and Millennium Commission.

1. 1. 1. Guidance

Organisations such as the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), EA, EN, Surrey Wildlife Trust and DEFRA play invaluable advisory roles for land managers and farmers. The type of advice provided includes management, restoration of floodplain habitats, along with advice on how to obtain grant aid for such projects as well as advice on the relevant legislation and codes of good practice for the protection of wetland areas. FWAG also produce “Whole Farm Conservation Plans” and “Farm Biodiversity Action Plans” with the aim of integrating conservation objectives across the whole farm. At a more local level the various countryside projects such as the Wey Valley Project also provide valuable advice with the aim of encouraging sympathetic management. The RSPB publications ‘The New Rivers and Wildlife Handbook 1993’ and ‘Wet Grassland Guide 1997’, are invaluable tools for land managers, and include a wide selection of case studies.

Technical handbooks have been developed for a number of species associated with floodplain habitats, including the water vole and otter, and further detailed information is available on both the water vole and otter from Surrey Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency.

iv. Research and Monitoring

English Nature undertakes regular monitoring of all SSSIs, including those comprising of riverine and floodplain habitats. Surrey Wildlife Trust carries out monitoring and survey of wildlife sites in the county and hold a great deal of biological data and records (see SNCI above). The EA undertakes strategic River Corridor Surveys (RCS), River Habitat Surveys (RHS), macro-invertebrate and macrophyte surveys (to establish water quality) and fishery surveys. Various research has also been undertaken by the EA on a wide range of issues including habitat improvements and bank protection.

8. OBJECTIVES

National Habitat Action Plan objectives and proposed targets

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      3. priority fen and wetland sites in critical need of rehabilitation, and initiate, rehabilitation by the year 2005. All rich fen and other sites with rare communities shbe considered.
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2. Ensure appropriate water quality and quantity for the continued existence of all SSSI fens by 2005.

3. Complete Water Level Management Plans for appropriate SSSI’s by the year 2004.

Surrey Wetland Objectives

4. Maintain the integrity of all existing wetlands by preventing loss, damage and fragmentation.

5. Ensure all existing wetlands are maintained and enhanced by appropriate management.

6. Improve knowledge of the wetland resource in Surrey.

7. In suitable areas, active restoration and/or creation of wetland habitats should be promoted and encouraged.

8. Protect and restore the natural function of river floodplains.

9. Improve the public perception and understanding of wetland habitats and their management.

9. TARGETS

Natural Area Wetland Targets for Surrey

Wealden Greensand

 Ensure appropriate water quality and quantity for the continued existence of all SSSI fen within the Natural Area by 2005.

 Maintain all existing fens at favourable conservation status.

London Basin

 Maintain and rehabilitate where necessary wet reedbed at Staines Moor (6ha) and Wraysbury and Hythe End (5ha).

 Ensure appropriate water quality and quantity for the continued existence of all fens within the Natural Area by 2005.

 Identify priority fen sites in critical need of rehabilitation by 2005. All rich fen and other sites with rare communities should be considered.

Low Weald

 Rehabilitate existing marsh which is in an unfavourable condition .

 Maintain extent and quality of existing marsh.

 Begin creating new areas of marsh from arable or other land use.

Surrey Targets

 Identify sites of conservation importance by 2002.

 Quantify the extent of the component parts of the various sites by 2005.

 Develop countywide database of sites beginning 2002.

 Protect hydrological integrity of sites.

 Maintain existing area of floodplain.

 Maintain and where possible improve water quality.

 Protect sites from abstraction.

 Achieve favourable management of 50% of known sites by 2006.

 Stop the loss of valuable wetlands by 2006.

 Achieve a 25% increase in the area of important wetlands by 2010.

 Maintain and where appropriate increase the extent of linear reedbed.

 Complete water level management plans by 2004.

 Form Surrey Wetland Group, to monitor and review the HAP and oversee its implementation in conjunction with floodplain grazing marsh and open water and reedbed Habitat Action Plans.

10. PROPOSED ACTION AND COSTS

The range of activities associated with the Surrey wetland plan are so diverse that a full costing would prove complex and site specific. The following gives a range of costs for various activities and as such should be viewed as being indicative.

Capital expenditure Cost (£) Complete river/wetland restoration 5k to 50k per km River Rehabilitation 1k to 10k per km Fish passes 5k to 20k per structure Penstocks/structure 0.5k to 5k per structure Monitoring River corridor surveys 0.1k to 0.2k per km Installation of piezometers 0.5k to 1k per km

Key to potential deliverers

ACs Angling clubs CoAg Countryside Agency EA Environment Agency EN English Nature FCs Fisheries Consultatives FRCA Farming and Rural Conservation Agency FWAG Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Landowners As implied Las Local Authorities LMCMP Lower Mole Countryside Management Project DEFRA Department for the Environment Farming and Rural Affairs (formerly: MAFF Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food) Minerals operators As implied NT National Trust RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds RVPs River Valley Projects SBP Surrey Biodiversity Partnership SCC Surrey County Council SNCLG Surrey Nature Conservation Liaison Group SWT Surrey Wildlife Trust WVP Wey Valley Project

Table 10.1 Policy and Legislation

ACTION Potential Deliverers YEAR (to be completed or in place by) MEETS OBJ No PRIORITY Lead Partners Current Action 2002 2007 2012

1. Where significant gaps in SSSI coverage are identified, appropriate sites should be notified. EN SWT    4 1

2. Review countryside management schemes to ensure appropriate, targeting, prescription, adequate funding and uptake to meet wetland targets. DEFRA EA, EN, SWT, LAs, FWAG.     5 1 3. Promote policies and good practice to protect floodplains and the riverine environment. EA LAs, FWAG, RVPs     8 1 4. Ensure the enhancement and creation of wetland habitats within the Local Environment Agency Plan. EA    1,7 2 5.Promote wetland creation as part of mineral restoration plans. SCC EN, EA, SWT, LAs, RSPB.   7 1 6.Ensure that wildlife sites of county importance are protected through the planning system. LAs SWT, SNCLG     4 1 7.Ensure that water quantity and quality is maintained and improved through the EA consenting and licensing process. EA EN, LAs     8 1 8.Adherence to the, and promotion of the Peat charter. SCC LAs, EA, landowners   9,4 2 9.Development of a Minerals Restoration and Enhancement Strategy. SCC Minerals Operators   7,8 1

Table 10.2 Site Safeguard and Management

ACTION POTENTIAL DELIVERERS YEAR (to be complete or in place by ) MEETS OBJ No PRIORITY Lead Partners Current Action 2002 2007 2012

1. Ensure that wetlands are not adversely affected by development LAs EA, EN, SWT     4 1

2. Continue the identification and review of county wildlife sites through the SNCI project. SWT LAs, EA, EN, SCC     6,1 1 3. Ensure that flood defence work is undertaken in a sensitive manner. EA Landowners AC, FC     8,5 1 4. Evaluate the habitat value of rivers using a suite of survey techniques, including River Habitat Surveys and River Corridor Surveys. EA Landowners AC, FC     6 1 5. Identify, undertake and implement a programme of water level management plans. EA, LAs Landowners EN     3,6,2 1 6. Ongoing/appropriate management of SSSIs, and non statutory sites. EN Landowners FWAG, SWT     1 1 7. Monitor the distribution and where possible control the extent of floating pennywort. EA Landowners.   5 1 8. Conservation Organisations to acquire and manage land in appropriate areas. EN SWT, NT    4,5 1 9. Encourage landowners to incorporate buffer zones adjacent to water courses. EA Landowners    5,8 1 10. Develop catchment fisheries strategies. EA Landowners, AC, FC    5 1

1. 1. Implement a programme of riverine catchment enhancement projects. EA Landowners AC, FC    7,8 1

12. Target wetland creation as part of mineral restoration plans. SCC Minerals operators, SWT, EA    7,8 1 13. Undertake appropriate riparian tree management EA Landowners AC, FC     8 2 14. Identify major obstructions to fish passage and seek removal or the installation of fish passes. EA AC,FC    8 1

Table 10.3 Advisory

ACTION POTENTIAL DELIVERERS YEAR (to be complete or in place by) MEETS OBJ No PRIORITY Lead Partners Current Action 2002 2007 2012

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FWAG RVPs, EA, EN, CA, SWT.     9 1 2. Provide showcase sites for demonstration of best management practice. FWAG RVPs, Landowners, SWT.     9 2 3. Advice to be given on riparian tree management. EA RVPs FWAG, landowners, SWT     9 2 4. Promotion of sustainable stillwater management plans. EA Landowners, AC, FC.    9 1

Table 10.4 Research and Monitoring

ACTION POTENTIAL DELIVERERS YEAR (to be complete or in place by) MEET OBJ No PRIORITY Lead Partners Current Action 2002 2007 2012

1. Monitor the effects of riverine enhancement schemes.

EA AC, Landowners     6 2 2. Monitor water quality and water quantity. EA AC, Landowners     6, 3 1 3. Produce an inventory of wetland sites. SWT EA, LAs   6 2 4. Identify needs of landowners and farmers, to enable them to manage land in a sensitive manner. Wey Valley Project EA, EN, CA.     6, 5, 9 1 5. Identify the extent of the component habitats within wetland sites. SWT EA, LAs   6 2 6. Monitor the quality of SSSI’s as part of common standards monitoring. EN SWT     2, 6 1 7. Identify the extent of floodplain. EA LA’s     6,8 1 8. Monitor the extent and control of targeted invasive species. EA AC, FC, SWT     6 2 9. Development of restoration techniques and marsh/swamp vegetation succession on mineral sites. SCC EA, EN, SWT   6,7 2 10. Implement a programme of fishery surveys. EA AC, FC, Landowners. 6,7 1

1. 1. Evaluate headwaters. EA Landowners 6,7 1

Table 10.5 Communication and Publicity

ACTION Potential Deliverers YEAR (to be complete or in place by) MEET OBJ NO PRIORITY Lead Partners Current Action 2002 2007 2012

1. Form Surrey Wetland Group

EA LMCP, AC, FC, RVP’s, SWT.     9 1 2. Disseminate guidance on wetland management. EA SWT, FWAG, RVP.     9 1 3. Ensure that Surrey wetland HAP is entered onto SCC website. SCC SBP   9 2

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   13. & SUGGESTED FURTHER READING
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• English Nature (1997) : Biodiversity and Minerals. ENTEC • English Nature (1997) : London Basin Natural Area Profile • English Nature (1997) : Lower Weald Natural Area Profile. • English Nature (1997) : Wildlife and Freshwater – An Agenda for Sustainable Management. Her Majesty’s Stationary Office (HMSO). • Environment Agency (1996) : Guidance for the Control of Invasive Plants near Watercourse. • Environment Agency (1996) : Understanding Buffer Strips – an information booklet. • Environment Agency (1997); Policy and Practice for the Protection of Floodplains. Booklet. • Environment Agency (1999) : Enhancing the Environment – 25 case studies from Thames Region. • Environment Agency, English Nature, Countryside Council for Wales (1998) : Freshwater Fisheries and Conservation Guidance. • Environment Agency, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (1997) : A Guide to Sustainable Urban Drainage – an information booklet. • Environment Agency, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (1998) : River Habitat Quality – the physical character of rivers and streams in the UK and Isle of Man (River Habitat Survey, Report No. 2) • Finlayson M., Moser M., (1991) : Wetlands. IWRB. Oxford. • Holmes N., Boon P., Rowell T., (1996) : Vegetation Communities of British Rivers. Joint Nature Conservation Committee. • Royal Society for Nature Conservation, RSPB (Royal Society for the Preservation of Birds), (1998) : The Biodiversity of South East England : an audit and assessment. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. • RSPB, English Nature, Institute for Terrestrial Ecology (1997) : The Wet Grassland Guide. RSPB • RSPB, National Rivers Authority (now EA), RSNC (1994) : The New Rivers and Wildlife Handbook. RSPB (Royal Society for the Preservation of Birds). • UK Biodiversity Steering Group (1995) : Biodiversity : The UK Steering Group Report. Volume 2 : Action Plans. HMSO • Wheeler A. (1992) : A List of Common and Scientific Names of Fishes of the British Isles. Academic Press. London.

12. MONITORING AND REVIEW

Progress on the Wetland Habitat Action Plan for Surrey will be reviewed every five years after the date of publication, at which time any appropriate modifications to objectives, targets and actions will be made. This process will be undertaken by the Surrey Wetland Group in liaison with the Surrey Biodiversity Partnership. HAP developments are also to be reported in “Surrey Biodiversity News”.

APPENDIX 1

Broad wetland habitat classes based on (a) substratum type, (b) hydrotopography (von Post & Granlund, 1926; Sjörs, 1950), (c) base status; (d) nutrient status; (e) main water source.

A Substratum type

AQUATIC WETLANDS (lakes, rivers, ponds) BOG

WETLANDS PEATLANDS

FENS PALUDIC WETLANDS (sensu stricto) (waterlogged land) ( mires) FENS (sensu lato) WETLANDS ON MINERAL SUBSTRATA

MARSHES

B Hydrotopography OMBROGENOUS

SOLIGENOUS

TOPOGENOUS geogenous

LIMNOGENOUS

C Base Status

BOG Poor Fen RICH FEN

D Nutrient Status

OLIGOTROPHIC MESOTROPHIC EUTROPHIC (nutrient poor) (moderate nutrient status) (nutrient rich)

E Water source

OMBROTROPHIC MINEROTROPHIC (mire surface fed (mire surface fed by precipitation only) by precipitation and groundwater)

APPENDIX 2

Key Biodiversity Species associated with rivers and streams, fen, marsh, swamp and linear reedbed in Surrey.

Common Name Scientific Name Taxa Presence in Surrey UK BAP List Great crested newt Titurus cristatus Amphibian Moderately common Short Marsh warbler Acrocephalus palustris Bird Rare summer migrant Middle Bittern Botarus stellaris Bird Rare winter visitor Short Reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Bird Moderately common Middle

True fox-sedge Carex vulpina Vascular plant Very rare Middle Large marsh grasshopper Stethophyma grossum Insect Very rare Possibly extinct

Desmoulin’s whorled snail Vertigo moulinsiana Mollusc Very rare, possibly extinct Short

Water vole Arvicola terrestris Mammal Uncommon, declining Short

Otter Lutra lutra Mammal Very rare Short Water shrew Neomys fodians Mammal Present Long Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus Mammal Present Short

Native crayfish Austropotambius pallipes Crustacean Present Short Depressed river mussel Pseudaodonta complinata Mollusc Present in 1973 Short Grass snake Natrix natrix reptile Present Long

Appendix 3 Fen, Marsh, Swamp and Reedbed National Vegetation Classification (NVC) plant communities occurring in Surrey.

NVC Species associated Habitat Example M6 Carfex echinata Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum Mire

M21 Narthecium ossifragum – Sphagnum papillosum Valley mire M24 Molinia caerula – Cirsium dissectum Fen meadow M25 Molinia caerula Potentilla erecta Mire M27 Filipendula ulmaria – Angelica sylvestris Mire Reigate Heath, Chinhurst Court M29 Hypericum elodes – Potamogeton polygonifolius Soakaway S3 Carex paniculata Sedge swamp S4 Phragmites australis Swamp and reedbed S5 Glyceria maxima Swamp Ferris Meadow S6 Carex ripara Swamp Wheelers Meadow S7 Carex acutiformis Swamp Chinhurst Meadow S8 Scirpus lacustris ssp. lacustris Swamp S9 Carex rostrata Swamp Thursley S10 Equisetum fluviatile Swamp Mires of west of county S12 Typha latifolia Swamp Hersham Pit, Ferris Meadow S13 Typha angustifolia Swamp S14 Sparganium erectum Swamp S15 Acorus calamus Swamp Lakeside Park, Guildford S16 Sagittaria sagittifolia Swamp S19 Eleocharis palustris Swamp Langham Pond S22 Glyceria fluitans Swamp S23 Other water-margin vegetation. S26 Phragmites australis – Urtica dioica Fen S27 Carex rostrata– Potentilla palustris Fen Thursley S28 Phalaris arundinacea Fen Ferris Meadow

Appendix 4 Wetland Habitat Action Plan working group members

Working Group Lead: Debbie Cousins Environment Agency

Working Group Members: Louise Bardsley, Ralph Hobbs English Nature

Harriet Dennison Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

Simon Elson, John Edwards Surrey County Council

Steve Bailey Blackwater Valley Countryside and Recreation Management Service

Chris Matcham Surrey Wildlife Trust