Project Overview
Attenborough Nature Reserve was established in 1966 and was opened by Sir David Attenborough. This much loved, nationally important site is best known for its birds with over 250 species recorded, but also provides a home for hundreds of species of plant and insects. It is cited as one of the best places in the UK to see kingfisher and is also home to rare wildlife including bitterns and otters. The reserve attracts around 500,000 visitors each year and holds a special place in the hearts of many – with families having visited for three generations.
The Challenge
EMEC Ecology undertook a weeks surveying of the aquatic flora at Attenborough Nature Reserve on behalf of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. This work was commissioned by Natural England to assess the condition of the SSSI’s botanical diversity, the quality of the water and to inform future management of the site.
The Solution
The surveying took place primarily from a boat, recording all marginal and surface macrophytes present and a thrown grapple was used to collect samples from the water column. The extensive data collected from numerous points across the waterbodies was analysed and formed a report that was presented to Natural England. The presence of the rare Fan-leaved Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus circinatus)and Short-leaved Water-starwort (Callitriche truncata) were particular highlights of the survey and the chance to explore the nationally famous reserve by boat was a privilege for all involved.
