Increasing wetland habitat on a Wildlife Trust nature reserve in Pembrokeshire, opening up a pond and creating an island with soil from the pond
Goodwick Moor, near Fishguard, suffered from habitat loss following continued growth of common reed and willow encroachment. As part of a Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership Project, an opportunity to restore and improve the diversity of the habitat through the creation of a large pond.
The site was constrained by limited access and a wet floodplain as works could only be undertaken during December – March to avoid nesting birds. Salix’s specialist amphibious plant was used to access the moor, whilst minimising disturbance to wildlife features on the reserve.
Working with the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales Reserves Manager throughout the project was crucial in order to maximise the environmental benefits of the project.
The Design
The pond was created with a depth of 1-1.5m, with shallow edges formed on the north and west sides, excavated spoil remained on site, some used in the creation of an island in the middle of the pond.
Due to the terrain and access to the site, Salix amphibious excavators were deployed to complete the works. Spoil was reused on site, deposited in a perimeter surrounding the pond.
The Benefits
The creation of the open water will provide increased habitat diversity, particularly for migratory birds. The reed beds and local vegetation support Sedge and Reed Warblers, Stonechats and Willow Warblers.
The site is known to provide habitat for a range of important species, including Otters, Water Voles, Buzzards, Kestrels and Sparrow-hawks. There is an abundant invertebrate community which includes dragonflies, damselflies, moths and butterflies. The open water created will provide further benefit for amphibians and aquatic plants, greatly improving the biodiversity of the site.
