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Case study:Unlocking the Severn + (Monitoring of the shad was a key component … Monitoring of the shad was a key component for this project, it underpinned all the other work, informing the fish pass design, measures of success, public engagement, citizen science, and international knowledge exchange and collaboration.Shad are a relatively poorly studied fish, this is because they have only limited commercial value, there is no aquaculture of them, they are relatively rare, and were notorious for being tricky to handle for scientific investigation. This project initially had to rely on the limited amount of published literature, much of which was from the similar American shad. As for the European shads there was even less, so the project quickly made links with the few European organisation interested in shad conservation and management, primarily in Portugal, France, Belgium and Ireland.This project allowed probably the largest study into shad behaviour anywhere in Europe to this point. Most previous studies had looked at only specific components of shad lifecycle. This required a multi-discipline approach and many of the techniques used were novel or adapted from known techniques to the conditions of the river Severn. Spawning Behaviour, Genetics & Environmental DNA:One of the key outcomes of this project was to see an extension in the spawning area used by shad. The Severn Estuary Special Area of Conservation status report classed shad as in “unfavourable” condition due to the barriers to migration cutting off their historic spawning grounds, with distribution of spawning only about 20% of that historically used. Effectively the weirs at Powick on the river Teme and Diglis on the river Severn were the upper most limits of spawning migration. Two studies were carried out which concluded that the habitat on the Teme and the river upstream of Stourport on the Severn remained largely unchanged from when shad last had free access back in the 19th Century. When these results were compared with the latest evidence on good spawning habitat it was concluded that if shad could reach this habitat, it would be highly suitable for the restoration of the species. It was also known that a large amount of the total shad run ends their upstream migration at either Powick or Diglis weirs, suggesting that there are fish motivated to continue their migration if possible.In each year of the project, night-time spawning observations were made by staff of the project, citizen science volunteers and students. This revealed some unexpected results, which were later supported by the tracking data. That is the lower navigable river is widely used by shad for spawning, this goes against much of the scientific literature, although similar behaviour is also witnessed in Belgium and Ireland. What the project investigation could not show is the effectiveness of the spawning in this area as shad were effectively forced to use these areas because of the barriers to migration. The most effective method of recording spawning activity turned out to be audio recording equipment (several types were trialled). These devices were left in suitable locations throughout the river and the recordings were then analysed after the event. This revealed that with all the fish passes open in 2022, shad spawning was recorded between each of them. This was a great result showing that once access was restored shad would use the newly opened habitat as expected. This result also supported the other independent monitoring provided by the tracking and eDNA results.Genetics also played an important part of this project, with one PhD successfully completing their studies looking at hybridisations and developing a technique to collect eDNA samples to confirm the presence or absence of shad as they returned to the newly opened river sections.Other studies have shown that the two species of shad (twaite and allis) readily hybridise if forced to use the same spawning areas. This has been seen elsewhere in Europe and proved to be the same on the river Severn with circa 30% of eggs sampled showing a significant degree of hybridisation. It will take years to see if this level declines as the two species are able to spatially diverge their spawning over subsequent generations as a long-term result of this project. The development of the eDNA technique, with the water samples now able to be taken by citizen scientist has been pivotal in ground truthing some of the other monitoring. The results clearly showed the barriers at Powick and Diglis were significant, however like many things in nature it was not quite as clear cut. eDNA in 2018 showed that in higher flow conditions some shad can negotiate these barriers, particularly on the river Teme. Although DNA detection levels were considerably lower than those below these barriers suggesting it is only a fraction of the population that make it over. This is actually an encouraging result as it clearly showed that a proportion of the run would start the recolonisation of the newly opened area once the fish passes were constructed, as has been proved right.Counts, Run Estimates & Citizen Science:To measure the initial and long-term success of the project it was important to have some idea of the starting population. Historical records show that shad numbers going back over the centuries were once sufficient to support an important local and export fishery from the estuary all the way up to the Welsh borders which ceased immediately after the construction of the navigation weirs in the 1840’s. In recent times an assessment of the population has not routinely been undertaken.Early in the project it became evident that shad could be observed running the notch in one of the lowest weirs at Upper Lode weir in Tewkesbury. Not only was this the perfect public engagement opportunity, but it also provided an opportunity to try a variety of monitoring techniques to quantify a run of shad that pass upstream of this structure. Techniques used included hydroacoustic, resistivity counters, direct observation and video recording.These methods were evaluated against each other, and direct observation proved to be the best for the project in determining a relative inter year run estimate. It was also hugely popular with the dedicated citizen scientists who undertook most of the observations. The use of video recordings made available on the website allowed the general public, often many miles removed from the river, to engage in the project, helping us to further validate the data. In all but the wet year of 2021 when the weir was submerged in flood water from extended periods a consistent run estimate has been produced in all years of the project. By using the acoustic tracking results, it has also been possible to scale this run estimate up to a whole river run to include the proportion of shad that complete their whole lifecycle downstream of this structure. This whole river run estimate has already been put to valuable use for Habitats Directive reporting, production of Habitats Risk Assessments and in support of a sensitive Public Inquiry where the Environment Agency was the regulatory authority.Diglis Fish Pass Viewing Gallery Cameras:Opened in time for the 2021 shad run, the viewing gallery at Diglis provided the project with another opportunity to count shad further upriver as they recolonised habitat unlocked for the first time in 180 years. A series of cameras were set up to record fish movement through the viewing window as they passed upstream. The hours of data collected was primarily analysed for shad, producing a passage rate of shad upstream as well as giving us valuable information on temporal movements to help inform the public tours at this facility. In 2021, 623 shad successful passed upstream and in 2022 this increased to 759 individuals. It is the offspring of these individuals that will kick start the restoration of shad in the Severn when they return as adults after 4-5 years.25 fish species have been recorded using the pass (up to Feb 2023) so the benefits for the wider ecosystem are clear to see. Counts of other species have been limited to the other Severn Estuary Special Area of Conservation species, particularly salmon and sea lamprey. This has been particularly useful for local fisheries managers.Tagging & Tracking ShadAcoustic tagging proved to be far more successful than ever hoped, and by the end of the project 331 shad had been successfully tagged, far exceeding any previous study of shad in Europe. This was made possible by the design and installation of a trap that fitted in the notch in Upper Lode weir. These fish provide data on all aspects of the shads’ behaviour, including duration of freshwater spawning migration, behaviour and delay at barriers (upstream and downstream), run estimates, distribution, freshwater mortality, difference in behaviour of individual between years, seaward migration, migration through the Bristol Channel (in collaboration with Swansea University), and marine mortality.PIT tags were fitted to all 545 shad. These tiny tags are detected by an energised external electrical field (PIT loop) which were placed in several notches of the Diglis fish pass to monitor migration through the pass for efficiency trials.itor migration through the pass for efficiency trials.)
Case study:Long Preston Deeps Flood Plain Project + (Monitoring of the site has revealed change … Monitoring of the site has revealed changes to the in-channel morphology followingseveral geomorphologically effective floods, recording sediment shoaling, riffledevelopment and an overall slowing of erosion of the bed and banks. Reconnected palaeofeatures have been rejuvenated; reducing overall erosive forces in the previously confinedmain channel. Improved floodplain connectivity and increased floodplain area have led tomore frequent inundation and the deposition of significant quantities of overbank fines. Wetter habitats are also developing across the floodplain.are also developing across the floodplain.)
Case study:Craigton Riparian and NFM Orchard Planting + (Monitoring of the tree establishment success rate will be carried out.)
Case study:WHIP - The Wye Habitat Improvement Project + (Monitoring sought to determine the changes … Monitoring sought to determine the changes in fish densities against the improvements generated by habitat work through a sophisticated electro fishing regimen. Robert Luxton from Cardiff University carefully monitored the changes in bank side vegetation as a result of habitat work he is just about to publish his PhD on this work. Details of these are awaited at time of going to press.ese are awaited at time of going to press.)
Case study:Environmental design Mandalsvassdraget + (Monitoring surveys and results are expected to be published soon.)
Case study:Oughtershaw NFM + (Monitoring the effectiveness of the bunds and leaky dams by installing time lapse cameras. Monitoring visitor numbers and gathering feedback from visitors to understand the benefits of the guided walks and how we could make improvements)
Case study:River Tarrant Rehabilitation Project + (Monitoring was completed before works to d … Monitoring was completed before works to detirmine where works should be focused.Monitoring was also completed after the works to establish how successful the project had been.At the very least periodic visits to the site should be made to help ensure grazing management is ideal for the conditions that develop. Repear photographs are recommended for the archive. Biological monitoring may be of limited value if pre-conditions have not been recorded. if pre-conditions have not been recorded.)
Case study:Pearls in Peril LIFE+ GB Project - River Ehen + (Monitoring work has been undertaken includ … Monitoring work has been undertaken including sonde data collection, freshwater pearl mussel survey and electro-fishing. On the River Ehen Atlantic salmon are the preferred host fish for as part of the freshwater pearl mussel lifecycle.Successful encystment occurred in August 2013 (27 salmon fry), August 2014 (76 salmon fry) and September 2015 (41 salmon fry). Levels of encystment, natural and artificial, were monitored from 2010 to 2016. In 2010 1 site was sampled and 34 out of 39 salmon showed signs of encystment; in 2013 5 sites were sampled and 24 out of 32 salmon were encysted; in 2014 8 sites were sampled and 25 out of 51 salmon were encysted; in 2015 7 sites were sampled and 15 out of 21 salmon showed encystment; and in 2016 7 sites were sampled and 18 out of 21 salmon were encysted.led and 18 out of 21 salmon were encysted.)
Case study:Pearls in Peril LIFE+ GB Project - River Dee + (Monitoring work is ongoing and being compl … Monitoring work is ongoing and being completed by the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board (electro-fishing, temperature loggers, habitat survey) and the James Hutton Institute (fixed point photography of morphology sites). At the morphology restoration sites, monitoring was limited to before and after surveys, although general habitat and electro-fishing work carried out by the DDSFB may pick up trends in the future. Establishment of riparian tree cover however is slow, especially in upland areas: monitoring of these longer-term projects is often overlooked, as it can require significant resourcing. However, it is essential to demonstrate that the restoration work is having the desired effect, and in this case monitoring will help guide further tree planting projects. On the Dee, the monitoring includes continual recording of the water temperature (every 15 minutes) at 20 sites within tree planting zones and at 20 control sites away from the tree planting. In the longer term, this will highlight the extent to which riparian shade can reduce the extreme summer temperatures. It is also expected (and hoped) that these trees will boost salmonid production and prevent further declines in juvenile fish densities that may otherwise arise from warming waters. Therefore, annual surveys of fish numbers, using electrofishing, are carried out at both tree planting and control sites. Increases in fish numbers, and the wider benefits to the river habitat, are also expected to benefit the local pearl mussel population over the long term.earl mussel population over the long term.)
Case study:Improving conservation condition of the National Trust managed river test SSSI + (Monitoring work is ongoing and has been in … Monitoring work is ongoing and has been in progress since 2014. The National Trust are working closely with designating bodies including the Environment Agency and Natural England as well as with local education institutions including Sparsholt College, Hampshire and Southampton University to monitor the results of works completed since 2014.Monitoring SSSI areas.pleted since 2014. Monitoring SSSI areas.)
Case study:Restoration of the Cassaire wetland (Rhôle delta) + (Monitoring: - vegetation dynamics and dyna … Monitoring:- vegetation dynamics and dynamics of the seed bank- transport of seeds (wind, water)- birds - counting of hunting tables- hydrologyThe former agricultural fields have been restored as temporary marshes and Mediterranean grasslands. The three objectives pursued have been globally achieved- Ecological: increase of the heritage interest of the site- Sociological: development of hunting activities for the inhabitants of the nearby hamlet- Scientific: progress of knowledge in ecology of restoration Main results:- reclamation of a wetland destroyed by cultivation activities in the middle of the 20th centuryBy:- the development of target plant communities according to hydrological conditions- the installation of protected but not targeted speciestion of protected but not targeted species)
Case study:Glenbrook Wetlands + (Nitrogen and phosphate are essential for r … Nitrogen and phosphate are essential for river life but in excess they cause eutrophication. This results in reduced levels of oxygen in the water and may cause toxic algal blooms. Nitrate may be present as ammonia, nitrite or nitrate (measured together as Total Nitrogen), but nitrate is the most stable form. Our water quality monitoring has shown that the SUDS basins are effective at removal of Total nitrogen, nitrates and phosphates. Water quality improves between sampling location 1 (the inflow to the SUDS) and location 2 (outflow from the SUDS), particularly in total nitrogen (dropping from 10mg/l to 6mg/l) and nitrate (dropping from 13mg/l to 7mg/l), bringing water quality within acceptable guideline levels (as defined in EA General Quality Assessment, Water Framework Directive 2014). Coliform bacteria derive from faecal waste and are an indicator of pathogens in the aquatic environment. They enter waterways from misconnected toilets, sewage treatment plant overflow, domestic pets and agricultural run off. The SUDS basins are extremely effective at removal of coliform bacteria. Water quality improves between sampling location 1 (the inflow to the SUDS) and location 2 (outflow from the SUDS), with coliform counts dropping from approximately 1400 total coliform colonies to approximately 400 total coliform colonies, bringing water quality within acceptable guideline levels (under EC Bathing Water Directive).Invertebrate surveys have also been carried out as part of this project. A masters student from Kings College London (KCL) undertook research into invertebrate populations at each of the project sites. Linking the invertebrate survey results to water quality data, the student predicted the impact/ potential impact of each of the SuDS/wetland schemes on population sizes and diversity over time. There was no existing data on invertebrates for the catchment before research was carried out. As predicted the invertebrate survey confirmed findings of poor water quality, with pollution sensitive taxa very badly represented. The study concluded that the SuDS have the potential to improve water quality and ecological outcomes downstream, but far greater efforts in reducing pollutants from vehicle use and misconnections will be required to resolve the problems of urban diffuse pollution.e the problems of urban diffuse pollution.)
Case study:Grovelands Park Wetlands + (Nitrogen is essential for river life but i … Nitrogen is essential for river life but in excess can cause eutrophication. This results in reduced levels of oxygen in the water and may cause toxic algal blooms. Nitrate may be present as ammonia, nitrite or nitrate (measured together as Total Nitrogen), but nitrate is the most stable form. Reed bed: The recently installed reed bed is already proving effective at removing nitrogen compounds from the water. There is a significant difference in water quality between the inflow above the reed bed (sampling location 1) and the sampling location immediately the other side of the reed bed (location 2) in total nitrogen, nitrate and ammonia. Total nitrogen drops from 7mg/l to 5mg/l, nitrate from 13mg/l to 4mg//l and ammonia from 1.6mg/l to 0.5mg/l. The improvement in water quality through the reed bed is greater than the improvement observed in the body of the lake. This is because the difference in water quality is larger between sampling sites 1 and 2 compared to between sites 2 and 3 (the lake outflow). Wetland basin: The wetland basin is effective at water quality improvement because it prevents polluted water from two drains (sample locations 5 and 6) from entering the stream at site 4. Water entering the infiltration basin from the de-culverted pipe at sampling site 6 is consistently outside of acceptable concentration ranges specified by the Water Framework Directive. Ammonia is consistently present in levels deemed harmful to aquatic life in both inflow pipes (sample locations 5 and 6). Water only flows out of the wetland basin in storm conditions so it effectively prevents polluted water from entering the stream. Coliform bacteria derive from faecal waste and are an indicator of pathogens in the aquatic environment. They enter waterways from misconnected toilets, sewage treatment plant overflow, domestic pets and agricultural run off.Reed bed: The reed bed is an effective remover of coliform bacteria, reducing the coliform colony count to within guideline limits (under EC Bathing Water Directive)immediately after the reedbed (sample location 2), dropping from approximately 1100 total coliform colonies to 50 total coliform colonies. Wetland basin: Water entering the wetland basin from the culverts at sampling sites 5 and 6 contains high counts of coliform bacteria, that are outside of guideline limits (under EC Bathing Water Directive). This is prevented from entering the stream (sample location 4) because water only flows out of the wetland basin in storm conditions. of the wetland basin in storm conditions.)
Case study:France Farm (Phase 1) A 9 + (No monitoring was undertaken. Observation of morphological change upstream of the opened hatches to determine level of future in channel works required.)
Case study:River Pinn Enhancement near Ickenham + (No post project monitoring has been done.)
Case study:Restoration of the original riverbed of the Steinbaechlein + (No pre-project assessment was carried out. … No pre-project assessment was carried out. In 2007, electrofishing was conducted by the National Office for Water and Aquatic Environments (ONEMA), showing a good recolonization of the restored stretch by fish; juveniles of trout, target species in the river, were also found. Since then no other monitoring has been done or is foreseen.r monitoring has been done or is foreseen.)
Case study:Stroud Rural Sustainable Drainage Project + (None to date)
Case study:River Dee + (On 3rd October 2014 the first salmon ascen … On 3rd October 2014 the first salmon ascended the Culter Dam in over 250 years, thanks to a fish pass we installed on the dam just days earlier funded entirely by businessmen Martin Gilbert and Stewart Spence. This dam, at Peterculter, is the largest man-made obstruction on the River Dee. *2014 Season: Numbers up the fish pass to date (June 2015): 43 Salmon 69 Sea troutWhy install a fish pass on the Culter?The fish pass has opened up 76 miles of habitat in the previously inaccessible Culter burn for migratory salmon and sea trout to re-establish natural populations in. Only the lowest one mile of burn is below the dam and so accessible to salmon and sea trout. The spawning and rearing habitat in this part of the burn is fully utilised, resulting in high juvenile fish densities. High juvenile fish densities mean lots of competition and higher mortality rates. Creating more rearing habitat for juveniles will result in lower mortality rates and so higher fish production.Once habitat restoration work is completed in the Culter catchment we expect to see an additional 1,500 salmon returning to the Dee each year. These salmon may be available to the catch and release rod fishery as far up river as Banchory, as our radio tracking studies show how fish may wander up to 20km upstream from where they eventually spawn. Monitoring Fish Pass SuccessA Vaki fish counter is installed at the top of the fish pass to record how many fish are using the pass to ascend the dam. The counter records the length of each fish. We assume that all fish longer than 50cm are salmon, fish between 30 and 50cm length are sea trout and fish less than 30cm are brown trout. In practice, there is some size overlap, particularly between small salmon and large sea trout. Our scale data show we would expect 6% error in these classifications. expect 6% error in these classifications.)
Case study:River Soar Floating Pennywort Eradication + (On a comparable length of watercourse that … On a comparable length of watercourse that has been included in all surveys since 2007 (as the survey area has increased over the years) the approximate length of pennywort beds totalled 10.3km in 2009 and 1.6km in 2012, this is a significant decrease in the occurrence of this species.We are already seeing the impacts of our work. Huge areas are now clear of Pennywort and the river is visible again. We have seen water lilies return in Abbey Park and fish are able to migrate as the water column is clear of the plant. Clearing the Grand Union Canal has made it much more accessible for boats.as made it much more accessible for boats.)
Case study:Tichborne River Restoration Project + (One of the main objectives of the project … One of the main objectives of the project was to deliver on the actions identified in the Test & Itchen Strategy. One action was to restore the stretch through weir removal to restore natural function. This has been achieved. Our objectives to restore natural chalk stream characteristics, remove obstacles, reduce/eliminate the need for human intervention and reconnecting the river within the floodplain are clearly demonstrable. The impounding structure and associated sluices have been removed and a characteristic gradient and sediment transport has been restored. The lake sediments have been off-lined from the channel system removing the potential phosphate enrichment of the downstream watercourse.The final objective was to maximise the physical and ecological diversity. Fish surveys, invertebrate and crayfish monitoring have been carried out along with HABSCORE surveys which were conducted in order to monitor the physical habitat and track the changes that will occur as the channel becomes more established over time. Jonathan Cox has provided information for the appropriate assessment and an assessment of the SSSI and the protected species. We also had an extended phase 1 Ecological Appraisal carried out by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT).Prior to this project this section of the Cheriton Stream had been heavily modified leaving a legacy of impoverished channels, a silt filled lake and a river that was disconnected from its flood plain. Please see the current site plan and proposed site plan drawings attached with this application.A significant achievement was met when the owners of Tichborne Park agreed to a significant landscape change to the park surrounding their grade II listed home. The lake had become a burdensome feature that would require significant resources to maintain. Once the agreement of the owners had been secured the designers and stakeholders of this scheme commenced with designs that aimed to restore a naturally functioning river channel. Some constraints existed, perhaps the most significant being the owners request that the river flowed close to the house to compensate for the loss of the lake. This entailed a diversion away from the natural path of the river for a small section of the project area. In all other areas channels were either created, reinstated or restored so that a natural path was achieved. Surveys have revealed a site now dominated by wild brown trout with eel, lamprey, bullhead and stickleback also present. Invertebrate monitoring has shown an abundance of gammarus, mayfly, stonefly and caddisfly to name a few. Unfortunately, with the untimely death of Anthony Louden, it was deemed to be inappropriate to cover the project widely in the press as the family were already under great pressure.The extent of the project’s achievements in restoring the natural state and functioning of the river system is illustrated in the following table: Revived RelicChannel (m) Restored Channel with increased flow volume (m) Channel with Restored Gradient (m) Channels preserved as backwaters / seasonal flow channels (m)Upstream meadow 180 190 185 280Lower meadow 195 75 260 Total 375 265 185 540Cloudbase Aerial Art, a specialist aerial media company, have successfully taken extensive before and after photographs through the use of drones.e and after photographs through the use of drones.)
Case study:Strategic redistribution of channel substrate + (Ongoing fish surveys are being undertaken at this location, as well as habitat assessment.)
Case study:Tweed Catchment Management Plan + (Our performance in delivering against the … Our performance in delivering against the whole CMP is reviewed every 4-5 years, and a popular review document is produced that measures progress on the main targets within. With each project we monitor at different levels. At its most basic we use fixed point photography. This combined with the monitoring carried out by the agencies for WFD classification purposes and site condition monitoring, gives a good indication of how the status of the watercourse has changed at the landscape scale over time. (e.g good ecological status; favourable site condition).At the other end of the scale we carry out very detailed monitoring such as on the Eddleston and the Bowmont Water. On the former we have installed, in conjunction with Dundee University, SEPA, Forest Research and British Geological Survey, one of the most detailed hydrological/groundwater monitoring networks in the UK. This is complemented by detailed hydro-geomorphological and ecological surveys (in-stream habitats, sediments, invertebrates, macrophytes, electrofishing), so we accurately assess the effects of each intervention and the totality of all the restoration work we are doing at both reach and catchment scale.e doing at both reach and catchment scale.)
Case study:Cardiff Rivers Group + (Our project is open ended with events bein … Our project is open ended with events being held every 3 weeks. Although the amount of rubbish we clear from the waterways is reducing in terms of large items, we still get a lot of plastics swept down from further upstream. We know we have made a difference and changed habits of people in Cardiff who used to use the rivers as an alternative rubbish bin, we have not been able to influence those further upstream. We have over 350 volunteers on our database and each event attracts between 20 and 30 volunteers, even in the depths of winter and irrespective of weather. Since 2009, we have held 121 events and worked approximately 4930 volunteer hours, collecting the following :- 3307 bags of rubbish, 157 trolleys, 187 car tyres, 144 traffic cones, 57 bicycles, 13 motor bikes and an estimated 22 tons of rubbish and 7 tons of scrap.ed 22 tons of rubbish and 7 tons of scrap.)
Case study:Arborfield nature like bypass and weirs project + (Over 1 hectare of nationally important wet … Over 1 hectare of nationally important wetland habitats will be restored - benefiting wildlife such as otters, kingfishers and dragonflies. A key feature of the 400k project was the successful partnership with Thames Water, the University of Reading, Farley Estate and Arborleigh Angling Club. Over 60 volunteer days were givenng Club. Over 60 volunteer days were given)
Case study:Tarrant Monkton Rehabilitation Project + (Periodic visits to the site will be made t … Periodic visits to the site will be made to help ensure grazing management is ideal for the conditions that develop. Tree growth or failure to grow should be monitored. Repeat photographs are recommended for the archive. Biological monitoring may be of limited value if pre-conditions have not been recorded. The creation of an accurately scaled diagram of the location and extent of each feature will also facilitate ease of repeating the As Built mapping survey to ascertain how the channel and the installations respond to the various flow and non-flow conditions and how the channel evolves physically and ecologically over time.ves physically and ecologically over time.)
Case study:Rookery Brook Pollution Prevention Project + (Phosphorus The phosphorus concentrations … Phosphorus The phosphorus concentrations within Rookery Brook showed a general increase to a peak (around 0.7 mg/l) in late summer (August, September) before reducing to approximately 0.25 mg/l in December and January. A slight worsening in quality is observed between upstream and downstream samples.Samples from the northern tributaries of the Rookery Brook showed a similar but more pronounced fluctuation. Concentrations rose from between 1.2 to 2 mg/l in July 2015 to 2.2 to 5.2 mg/l at their peaks in September through to November. The southern tributary recorded lower phosphorus concentrations, peaking at 0.7 mg/l in October 2015 (similar to Rookery Brook itself).In relation to the Water Framework Directive (WFD) monitoring indicated that the Rookery Brook northern tributaries are of ‘poor’ water quality with respect to phosphorus and is itself of ‘moderate’ quality. The southern tributary varied from ‘moderate’ to ‘good’.NitrogenConcentrations of nitrate and other nitrogen compounds, including ammonia, have also been monitored. Ammonia is indicative of sewage effluent, farmyard slurry or manure type of contamination and within the Rookery brook itself varied from 0.2 to 1.5 mg/l classified under the Water Framework Directive as ‘high’ to ‘moderate’ quality. The poorest quality was recorded at the upstream sample point in August. However, peaks also occurred at the mid-catchment sample point in October. Within the northern tributaries ammonia peaks of between 4 and 20 mg/l were recorded in September and October 2015, which is classified as ‘poor’ quality under the WFD. Again the quality of the southern tributary was better generally being ‘moderate’ to ‘good’.Nitrate concentrations were generally below the NVZ/Drinking Water Standard threshold of 50 mg NO3/l. However, all the watercourses (Rookery Brook and the northern and southern tributaries) exceeded the threshold in December 2015 to January 2016 with concentrations up to 68 mg NO3/l being recorded.This data sets out the background or baseline water quality for the lower Rookery Brook catchment prior to the installation of any mitigation measures to improve water quality.igation measures to improve water quality.)

Case study:Queensbury Recreation Ground + (Photographs pre-works)
Case study:Poyle channel enhancement and weir removal + (Photographs pre-works)
Case study:Hogsmill Sewage Treatment Works phase 1 + (Photographs pre-works)

Case study:Plough Lane weir removal + (Photographs pre-works Fisheries survey Photographs post-works)
Case study:Lea Bridge Waterway Wall Improvements + (Photographs pre-works Photographs post-works)
Case study:Brent Lodge Park Improvement + (Photographs pre-works Pre-project data: specify above)
Case study:River Wandle: Butter Hill Phase 1 + (Please see the parent project (River Wandle Restoration Project) for the final results on this work, combined with the other phases.)
Case study:Butter Hill Phase 2 + (Please see the parent project (River Wandle Restoration Project) for the final results on this work, combined with the other phases.)
Case study:River Wandle: Butter Hill Phase 3 + (Please see the parent project (River Wandle Restoration Project) for the final results on this work, combined with the other phases.)
Case study:Emmanuel’s Common Reconnection Project + (Please use the link to find out about the Electrofishing surveys for the project http://www.norfolkriverstrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Electrofishing-doc.pdf)
Case study:Upper River Nairn restoration project + (Post works monitoring is essential for eva … Post works monitoring is essential for evaluating the physical and ecological performance of the project. Given the near unique scale of application of the ‘process-based’ restoration approach, the project provided an invaluable opportunity to monitor how the river environment responds to the various components of the implemented works, providing valuable insight and guidance for the application of this type of approach in other areas.Specific monitoring has included:• Repeat topographic/ bathymetric surveys (immediately post-construction and subsequent to three high flow events flood events).• Repeat sediment sampling (pre- and post- implementation)• Repeat fixed-point photographs• Repeat spawning surveys/ redd counts (including pre-works and the two spawning seasons post-construction)• Repeat electro-fishing surveys (in both channel and wetland locations, pre- and post-works)Immediately after construction, a detailed topographic and sedimentary resurvey were carried out. Further resurveys have been undertaken after significant flow events, determining rapid evolution of the site and in the trajectory intended (and predicted by modelling).Given fish populations are a good indicator of habitat condition, repeat red counts and electro-fishing surveys have also been undertaken. Latest survey results show significant increases in spawning and juvenile salmon and trout compared to pre-restoration conditions, providing an ‘ecological validation’ the works implemented.logical validation’ the works implemented.)
Case study:Osterley Weir, Hanwell eel pass + (Post-project Appraisal)
Case study:Knock Burn low flow channel + (Pre and post photographs were taken. A st … Pre and post photographs were taken. A standard maintenance post audit form was completed 9 months after the project was completed. Annual photography is used to monitor the project. Assessment carried out during photography shows that the channel is maintaining itself overall, with fish present (which had not been the case before). Wetland vegetation has developed on the secondary channel, helping to stabilise the silty substrate, helping to stabilise the silty substrate)
Case study:BALLYMONEY RIVERSIDE PARK RESTORATION PROJECT + (Pre works assessment included a River Hydr … Pre works assessment included a River Hydromorphology Assessmeent (RHAT) and fisheries survey, and a flood risk assessment. The site will be monitored for several years, with the council monitoring the development of the wetland and impacts on wildfowl, Rivers Agency continuing flood risk assessment, DCAL carrying out fish stock and habitat assessment, and NIEA carry out a reRHAT on regular intervals.A carry out a reRHAT on regular intervals.)
Case study:Louds Mill (Downstream)m Enhancement + (Pre works electro fishing was complete. This is due for repeat in 2015)
Case study:Martins River Island + (Pre works electro fishing was undertaken at this site. Post works was carried oout in 2013. Repeat survey is not likley until 2016)
Case study:Enler River enhancement project + (Pre works fishery assessment and river habitat assessment were carried out, along with photographs. Post works photographs have been taken and this will continue. One year plus fishery assessment and habitat assessment planned for 2015.)
Case study:Houghton 'trout stream' enhancements + (Pre-enhancement fish surveys have been undertaken The Environment Agency will continue to monitor this site through electric fishing surveys.)
Case study:River Skerne- Life project + (Pre-monitoring Before restoration started, … Pre-monitoringBefore restoration started, several indicators were monitored to see what the reference situation was for post-restoration monitoring.'''Ecology'''*Macrophytes - monitored qualitatively, number of species found per 500 meter channel length. *Macro-invertebrates - species richness and abundance, and as an indicator for water quality/organic pollution (BMWP).*Fish - biomass, fish density and species richness. *Birds were monitored by assessing the assemblage of breeding birds and abundance.'''Hydro-morphology'''*Geomorphological - channel cross sections and physical habitat mapping.*Water quality - suspended sediment concentration and concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus (measured at monthly intervals).*Modelling of flood frequency.'''Social-economic factors'''*Economic benefits for six categories (water quality, amenity, fisheries, agriculture, flood defence and recreation) were calculated.*Public perception was measured using a semi-structured questionnaire survey.*90% of the visitors to the River Skerne in Darlington were quite or very satisfied with the restoration of the river, 15 years on from the completion of the work. ''Revisiting the River Skerne: The long-term social benefits of river rehabilitation. Åberga and Tapsell. Landscape and Urban Planning 113 (2013) 94– 103 '''''Post-monitoring'''*Repetition of pre-monitoring was carried out 1 and 2 years after restoration. Due to its importance as a demonstration project, further monitoring been carried out by Master and PhD students.*Revisiting the River Skerne: The long-term social benefits of river rehabilitation. Åberga and Tapsell. Landscape and Urban Planning 113 (2013) 94– 103 Expectations and Response:*It was expected that the existing unpleasant park would improve in aesthetic quality and as a public recreation area. The river would feature more natural elements and dynamics. EcologyOne year after restoration, macrophyte species richness increased above pre-restoration levels with 30%. The downstream control site did not seem to be affected by the restoration measures. No initial changes were found in the macro-invertebrate community, but long term surveys have shown an increase in niche specific macro-invertebrate families sensitive to siltation and/or organic pollution.The fish species richness increased with Roach (Rutilus rutilus) and Chub (Leuciscus cephalus), but the total number of caught individuals was small with only 16 fish of 4 species. The appearance of new fish species can be related to the new fish pass below Darlington. Unfortunately, several severe pollution incidents may have largely eliminated recolonizing fish populations.Hydro-morphologyThe river length was increased with 13%. Longitudinal and cross-section variability in meandered section was limited due to flood risk management requirements. However, macrophyte growth has provided some flow and habitat diversity. The constructed riffle at the upstream end has provided habitat for macro-invertebrates sensitive to fine sediments which were not found in the section prior to restoration (e.g. the freshwater limpet Ancylidae, the riffle beetle Elmidae, the net-spinning caddis fly Hydropsychidae and the blackfly larvae Simuliidae).The new channel profile with lower banks increased the out of bank flow to a maximum of 4.5 days per year. The lowering of the floodplain itself created more water storage and the flood protection level has remained unchanged.SocialLocal residents were engaged in the project from the planning phase and post-restoration assessment showed that 52% of the local residents ‘mostly’ and 30% ‘strongly’ approved the restoration works. A majority of 64% felt that the restoration scheme had achieved its objectives and 70% of the residents thought more wildlife had been attracted to the area. Long term monitoring has shown an increased support for the restoration scheme, with increasing number of satisfied local residents.Overall, the Skerne project was a big social success. People were engaged in the project and very positive about the outcomes. The ecological status has improved, but it is still limited by the urban environment, (e.g. fixation of the river to protect infrastructure, and pollution from industry upstream).re, and pollution from industry upstream).)
Case study:River Cole- Life Project + (Pre-monitoring: Ecology • Macrophytes - … Pre-monitoring:Ecology• Macrophytes - number of species found per 500 meter channel length. • Macro-invertebrates - species richness and abundance, and as an indicator for water quality/organic pollution (BMWP).• Fish - biomass, density and species richness. • Birds - the assemblage of breeding birds and abundanceHydromorphology• Geomorphology - channel cross sections and physical habitat mapping.• The water quality - suspended sediment concentration, nitrogen and phosphorus.• Modeling flood frequency.Post- monitoring:Repetition of pre-monitoring was carried out 1 and 2 years after restoration, as well as a public perception survey. Due to its importance as a demonstration project, further monitoring been carried out by Master and PhD students. Expectations and results:It was expected that the new meandering channel would provide better habitat opportunities for aquatic species and the hydromorphology and flood frequency in the floodplain would improve because of the more natural channel dimension. EcologyPlant species richness increased immediately after restoration. Marginal emergent plant species richness increased significantly, but submerged aquatic plants showed a less immediate effect. The new upstream channel was quickly recolonized by macro-invertebrates. The downstream reach did not change significantly, but some more niche specific taxa were found 12 years after implementation. Two new species were found in the restored Cole, one stonefly (Leuctra geniculata) and a caddis fly (Athripsodes albifrons)Fish biomass and density returned to pre-restoration levels, and species richness remained unchanged. However, long-term surveys have shown an overall decline in fish density at both restored and control sites, indicating impact from an external factor.The number of breeding wetland species did not increase in the first year. The abundance of Yellow Wagtails (Motacilla flava) increased significantly. Casual inspection suggests little change after two years.HydromorphologyThe river length was increased by 30%. The cross-sectional area was considerably smaller and less deep. The number of natural in-channel features, such as pools and riffles, increased after restoration. In the downstream section maturing trees also provide woody debris, creating habitats and flow diversity.The restoration measures recreated a more natural flooding regime. SocialPublic perception was measured via a questionnaire and 53% of the respondents in Coleshill mostly approved with the measures while 17% strongly approved. The long-term monitoring showed that only about half of the local residents strongly (25%) or mostly (31%) approved to the river restoration project.The restoration measures showed overall positive results for the ecological status. The downstream channel benefited greatly from the restoration measures, but the new upstream course was not fenced off from cattle and has therefore little riparian vegetation. However, due to lack of initial engagement, some local residents were unhappy with the project.l residents were unhappy with the project.)
Case study:River Cole Restoration + (Pre-project baseline MoRPh surveys have be … Pre-project baseline MoRPh surveys have been undertaken at Ackers Weir and at Heybarnes Recreation Ground. These Modular River Surveys will be used again to establish post-project changes.The project has various degrees of monitoring, the lengthiest of these being the rigorous INNS (Invasive Non-Native Species) management plan in place targeting the Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandiferula) along the banks of the river Cole. The plan predominantly targets Himalayan balsam, populations of Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) and Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) present on site will also be monitored.Across all sites, Sanctus used automated continual monitoring upstream and downstream of the works. This ensures that the works were not negatively impacting the water quality, providing real time data for project partners, often showing a near immediate benefit in oxygenation levels.Sanctus have provided 4 months of aftercare and bioremediation to materials taken from the river channel after the Ackers weir removal to improve contaminated material to form new habitats. For the wider project, funding is being secured to create a programme of citizen science monitoring projects working with organised post-graduate and post doctorate researchers to establish monitoring across a wider range of subjects and disciplines including water quality, air quality, habitat monitoring. quality, air quality, habitat monitoring.)
Case study:Fordmill weir + (Pre-project data)
Case study:Fishery/habitat enhancement on the Grand Union Canal + (Pre-project data)
Case study:Broadway Fields/ Seagers Distillary + (Pre-project data)
Case study:Weir Road + (Pre-project data Photographs pre-works River Habitat Sourvey, River Corridor Survey Post-project Appraisal)
Case study:Dagenham Washlands Phase 2 + (Pre-project data Photographs pre-works Photographs post-works)
Case study:Removal of Carleton Hall weir, Eamont Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria + (Pre-removal surveys have been undertaken o … Pre-removal surveys have been undertaken of the river for habitat, fish & native crayfish and post-removal survey work will be undertaken for comparison.Fixed point photographs will be used to monitor the visible physical effects on the river of removing the weir.cal effects on the river of removing the weir.)

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