The Dredging begins!

This morning some of the dredging equipment arrived at Fleet pond.

Over the years, the ecological and physical condition of Fleet Pond has declined due to the build up of silt in the lake brought in from the Gelvert and Brookley Streams. The build up of silt is causing key habitats to deteriorate and the lake is now in an unfavourable and declining status. The Fleet Pond Restoration Project aims to recreate lost habitat and improve biodiversity value within the lake.

The dredging is going to start from Sandy Bay to deepen the lake around this area, the dredged lake sediment (largely sand) will be re-used to create a sequence of islands in and around the lake shore.

The new islands will not fully enclose the edge of the lake area. Gaps will be left between the islands to enable water to flow freely, to provide wildlife and rowing boat access, and to keep valuable views across the lake.

The islands will provide sheltered marginal areas which will provide positive benefits for a range of valued species, including the recovery of the lake’s plant and insect life for which it was renowned.

For Heath and Safety reasons we have had to temporarily close off the waters edge of Sandy Bay, but the benches are still accessable. Why not take a seat when your next down at Sandy Bay and see whats going on?

See you around the Pond

Louise Greenwood
Fleet Pond Countryside Ranger