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• Case study:River Skerne- Life project  + (Pre-monitoring Before restoration started, … Pre-monitoring</br>Before restoration started, several indicators were monitored to see what the reference situation was for post-restoration monitoring.</br></br>'''Ecology'''</br></br>*Macrophytes - monitored qualitatively, number of species found per 500 meter channel length. </br>*Macro-invertebrates - species richness and abundance, and as an indicator for water quality/organic pollution (BMWP).</br>*Fish - biomass, fish density and species richness. </br>*Birds were monitored by assessing the assemblage of breeding birds and abundance.</br></br>'''Hydro-morphology'''</br></br>*Geomorphological - channel cross sections and physical habitat mapping.</br>*Water quality - suspended sediment concentration and concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus (measured at monthly intervals).</br>*Modelling of flood frequency.</br></br>'''Social-economic factors'''</br></br>*Economic benefits for six categories (water quality, amenity, fisheries, agriculture, flood defence and recreation) were calculated.</br>*Public perception was measured using a semi-structured questionnaire survey.</br>*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 ''</br></br></br>'''Post-monitoring'''</br>*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.</br>*Revisiting the River Skerne: The long-term social benefits of river rehabilitation. Åberga and Tapsell. Landscape and Urban Planning 113 (2013) 94– 103 </br></br>Expectations and Response:</br>*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. </br></br>Ecology</br></br>One 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. </br>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.</br>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.</br></br>Hydro-morphology</br></br>The 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).</br></br>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.</br></br>Social</br></br>Local 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.</br></br></br>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:</br></br>Ecology</br></br>• Macrophytes - number of species found per 500 meter channel length. </br>• Macro-invertebrates - species richness and abundance, and as an indicator for water quality/organic pollution (BMWP).</br>• Fish - biomass, density and species richness. </br>• Birds - the assemblage of breeding birds and abundance</br></br>Hydromorphology</br></br>• Geomorphology - channel cross sections and physical habitat mapping.</br>• The water quality - suspended sediment concentration, nitrogen and phosphorus.</br>• Modeling flood frequency.</br></br>Post- monitoring:</br></br>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. </br></br>Expectations and results:</br></br>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. </br></br>Ecology</br></br>Plant species richness increased immediately after restoration. Marginal emergent plant species richness increased significantly, but submerged aquatic plants showed a less immediate effect. </br>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)</br>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.</br>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.</br></br>Hydromorphology</br></br>The 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.</br>The restoration measures recreated a more natural flooding regime. </br></br>Social</br></br>Public 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.</br>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.</br></br>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.</br></br>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.</br></br>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. </br></br>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<br> Photographs pre-works<br> River Habitat Sourvey, River Corridor Survey Post-project Appraisal)
• Case study:Dagenham Washlands Phase 2  + (Pre-project data<br>Photographs pre-works<br>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.</br>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.)
• Case study:Reopening of the culverted Redon river  + (Pre-restoration works monitoring have been … Pre-restoration works monitoring have been carried</br>out. It includes a topographic survey for a hydraulic</br>analysis of the site. Furthermore, fish rescue by electric</br>fishing was performed at the opening of the culvert.</br></br>Fish stocks were monitored following the culvert</br>removal on the Redon, six months after the restoration</br>work. As part of the appraisal of the “Crossborder</br>river contractforthe southwest part of Lake Geneva”</br>(2006-2012), fish stocks were monitored in all the</br>watercourses in the area covered by the SYMASOL.</br>For this, the fish population was counted in the</br>Redon at the location of the work site in the summer</br>of 2011, four years after the restoration work.</br></br>An IBGN survey was conducted in 2009 (two years</br>after the work) by a consultancy.</br></br>Lake trout can now swim up the whole length of</br>the Redon.</br></br>Six months after the works, about 230 river trout</br>were recorded throughout the reopened stretch,</br>i.e. 3,800 individuals per hectare against only</br>fifteen or so individuals identified during the fish</br>rescue operation.</br></br>The results of the 2011 electric fishing confirm the</br>trend noted six months after work was completed.</br>Thus, 48 trout were counted on the upstream</br>station, i.e. 3,678 individuals per hectare.</br></br>These results are very positive and seem to indicate</br>that the fish population is stabilising in the part of the</br>watercourse where the culvert has been removed.</br></br>The IBGN analysis suggests that the quality of water</br>is restrictive in this portion of the Redon. The taxon</br>indicator (Hydropsychidae) is relatively tolerant to</br>poor water quality and taxonomic diversity is quite</br>low (18 taxons identified). However, the absence of</br>a sampling point before the restoration work does</br>not allow the observation of a potential gain in</br>terms of water quality or habitat diversity due to</br>removal of the culvert.</br></br>The outcome in terms of overall assessment is</br>excellent from the point of view of elected officials,</br>residents and fishing stakeholders.</br></br>Pursuant to the River Contract (2006-2012), a</br>general policy to review weirs preventing river</br>continuity was implemented. Rocky boulders or</br>bypasses were set up to make weirs passable.passes were set up to make weirs passable.)
• Case study:Lowering the weir of the Houël mill on the Leff River  + (Pre-works monitoring was carried out in 20 … Pre-works monitoring was carried out in 2009 on the hydromorphological characteristics upstream of the weir (flow patterns, substrate sizes, morphology of the river bed and banks).</br></br>These measurements were not pursued following the works, however biological monitoring was set up in 2011 by the Côtes-d’Armor FDAAPPMA in the former impounded reach. Monitoring consisted of electrofishing for salmon and of visual inspections of the spawning habitats and redds for the two other species. This monitoring programme was set up for a period of five years and carried out annually from 2011 to 2015.</br></br>The continuity of the Leff River has been restored over a 700-metre section up to the next hydraulic structure. Flows are now more rapid and the fine sediment deposited in the impounded reach was carried off to reveal a more coarse substrate made up of rocks and gravel. The diversity of habitats, flow patterns and new substrates revealed upstream of the former weir is favourable for diadromous migratory species that have found along the 700-metre section new spots suitable for their reproduction (well oxygenated gravel) and to the growth of juveniles (riffles). In 2011, approximately 30 spawning grounds for sea lampreys were observed upstream of the former weir. Prior to the lowering of the weir, the water was too deep and hindered the reproduction of the species. Juvenile salmon use the new riffles created in the former impounded reach during their growth phases. On the other hand, no shad have been observed upstream of the former weir, possibly because the species has not yet colonised the new environment.</br></br>In terms of recreational activities, the site is more frequently visited by anglers since the restoration project. It has become a good fishing spot with larger numbers of salmon caught than in the previous years.</br></br>The kayakers are happy with the changes made because it is now easier to travel over the weir and the white-water areas are fun to shoot. The improvements to the historical heritage were also one of the strong points of the project. The formerly abandoned mill building was spotlit with signs installed on the existing trail to explain the history of the site. trail to explain the history of the site.)
• Case study:Removal of the Brosses weir on the Soanan River  + (Pre-works monitoring was carried out on se … Pre-works monitoring was carried out on several compartments of the hydrosystem. The characteristics of the morphological compartment (long and cross profiles, substrate measurements, flow patterns) were identified prior to the works. The fish and riparian-vegetation compartments were also assessed by the FDPPMA 69 and the SMRPCA respectively. Finally, pre-works monitoring of the spawning redds was done by the Rhône local office of Onema. Post-works monitoring was done on the same compartments in 2011.</br></br>The removal of the Brosses weir opened 2.5 km of river and potential spawning redds for brown trout. The free movement of fish species and sediment was restored between this section of the Soanan and the Azergues River.</br></br>On the site of the former weir, the Onema local office noted, post works, more diversified flow patterns and a shift from lentic to lotic facies. These changes in facies would seem to have stimulated the populations of bullheads and juvenile brown trout, whose respective densities were multiplied by factors of ten and three one year after the works.</br></br>In 2017, following numerous floods including a particularly morphogeneous flood in 2016, it was decided to pursue monitoring on the Soanan. The flood in question reduced some of the irregularities in the long and cross profiles of the river. The slope is now similar to the steady slope observed in the rest of the river. However, regressive erosion upstream of the former weir has been observed.</br></br>Analysis of the monitoring data revealed reactivation of sediment over a distance of 120 metres upstream of the former weir and, downstream, sediment progression to the confluence with the Azergues River. The fine sediment (sand and silt) disappeared from the upstream zone, revealing gravel beds. In just one year, the natural sediment dynamics were restored in this section of the river.</br></br>Prior to the removal of the weir in 2009, no spawning activity by brown trout had been observed over a distance of 200 metres below the weir. Two spawning redds were subsequently observed in 2010, i.e. during the winter immediately following the removal, and twelve spawning redds were observed in December 2011. On the basis of the monitoring results for fish, the species commonly found in calm waters and ponds/lakes had disappeared following the removal of the weir. The number of brook lampreys fell virtually to zero due to the disappearance of the sand and silt substrates. The studied river section had returned to its initial fish-population context comprising essentially salmonids. In 2017, the trout population had returned to a certain equilibrium in that all age classes were represented. However, juveniles were under-represented due to two very hot and dry summers the previous two years.</br></br>An action programme for flood prevention (PAPI) and a river-basin contract are currently in effect in the Azergues basin. These two instruments aim to enhance the coordination of management work to control floods and restore aquatic environments by developing contacts and project development in the area.tacts and project development in the area.)
• Case study:Rodley weir by pass channel  + (Preliminary data from 88 tagged trout show … Preliminary data from 88 tagged trout show that fish can find and navigate the pass. We will review the data in spring 2014 to assess fish behviour in the channel. </br></br>The channel has colonised well with the hard work of Rodley Nature Reserve volunteers who have hand pulled Himalayan balsam to allow more native plants to flourish. The visitors and volunteers of the reserver report frequent sightings of dippers and grey wagtais and a male otter has moved into the site and is using the channel as a hunting station - indeed some of our tagged fish may have been dinner.e of our tagged fish may have been dinner.)
• Case study:Twineham Weir Removal & In-channel Enhancements  + (Prior to the weir removal fish surveys wer … Prior to the weir removal fish surveys were conducted by the Environment Agency with the next surveys due in 2016. We continue to liaise with the angling clubs who have kept catch records at this site for a number of years. Currently we are seeing the expected dip in overall biomass of fish through this section as the resident Carp disperse away from the now flowing river and the overall species composition changes. We expect to see more natural, sustainable populations of river species develop over the coming years. The backwater habitats were immediately effective with over 300 fry counted in a single refuge within days of completion and larger individuals recorded during over-winter peak flows resting in the still waters these refuge areas have created.</br></br>In addition to the changes in fish species composition we have also recorded two kingfishers on site, the first time they have been observed here for over a decade. Through a separate project OART have been supporting the landowner in a programme of mink trapping which has not only captured 26 mink in its first year (in 2km of river) but has also recorded Polecat (known to have re-colonised Sussex approximately 8 years ago) and seen the number of wading and river birds rapidly increase. </br></br>We continue with our regime of fixed point photography to monitor change in bank profiles and the rate of vegetation establishment. and the rate of vegetation establishment.)
• Case study:Valley Brook Restoration Project  + (Project The aim of this project was to tes … Project</br>The aim of this project was to test out the effectiveness of carrying out more detailed environmental planning on one waterbody and understand if this would drive action and improvements. </br>This involved three stages of work:</br>Stage 1 - Intelligence report</br>Stage 2 - Detailed environmental planning</br>Stage 3 - Production of the plan</br></br>Stage 1: Intelligence report</br>The intelligence report brings all of the information e know about the brook into one place. This allowed us to identify the significant issues on the brook whilst maintaining an overview. </br>Two main issues were identified for Valley Brook:</br>* Restoring a more natural flow and function to the river (mitigation measures)</br>* Reducing the input of phosphate from upstream catchmentsnput of phosphate from upstream catchments)
• Case study:Stainby Road, Colsterworth  + (Project is very recent so just establishing. We have baseline data for fish and river habitat survey as well as detailed drone topo. Post monitoring work will commence from 24 on wards. River condition assessment pre and post delivery has taken place.)
• Case study:Rewilding the Rom  + (Project progress has been monitored in a n … Project progress has been monitored in a number of ways: </br></br> Through fixed point photography (FPP); </br></br> Aerial drone footage; </br></br> MoRPh surveys; </br></br> Macroinvertebrate (RMI); </br></br> Wildlife surveys to assess the reinstatement of native species. </br></br>As most of the major restoration works were completed by Thames21 in the spring of 2023, BEPREP research at ‘time zero’ in a rewilded wetland started (report attached as supporting file). Sampling began in April 2023, with a second session in August of the same year; sampling will continue with two sessions in 2024. </br></br>In addition, Thames21 are measuring the impact of the project on the local community by the number of participants in volunteering and other nature-related activities (e.g. nature walks, discussions, nature/art workshops). The aim is to achieve meaningful points of direct contact with at least 600 people including those from underrepresented communities (ethnic minorities and low-income groups).</br></br></br>The effort to restore natural processes on the Rom is demonstrated by several indicators that are tracked and evaluated via surveys, anecdotal evidence, and media coverage. </br></br>The Horizon funded BEPREP project, researches the effects of rewilding on improving health resilience. At the project site, biological indicators were measured both immediately after excavation and for five years post- restoration. The first few data points demonstrate that, especially the new wetland scrapes, have shown improved biological outcomes and shown which flora and fauna are settling at the site. </br></br> </br></br>Specific indicators include microbiota (bacteria and fungi) changes in the water (e.g. amphibians), on the land (e.g. soil, arthropods, vegetation, micromammals, canids) and in the air (e.g. bats, birds). This research will provide crucial information on which flora, fauna and microorganisms colonise and interact in newly excavated urban wetlands and is fundamental for the sustainable management of aquatic urban environments, and for understanding their importance to human health. The first few data points demonstrate that, especially the new wetland scrapes, have shown improved biological outcomes and shown which flora and fauna are settling at the site. </br></br> </br></br>We are using data from citizen science and observational monitoring, as well as advanced molecular analysis techniques (using environmental DNA) to measure the changes in macro and micro biodiversity of the restored wetlands and nearby forests (Report provided in the ‘Supporting Documentation’ section F1). Preliminary results already show arthropods, amphibians and reptiles colonising the new wetlands. Particularly noteworthy discoveries include molecular identification of faecal pellets from water voles, a nationally rare species. </br></br> </br></br>Records from Fixed Point Photography (FPP) provide a visual record of the changes that are taking place; comparison photos from before and after the restoration work effectively show how the Rom and its floodplain have changed. These images provide a good view of the project impacts through increased river-land interface connectivity and the instigation of natural processes. </br></br> </br></br>To ensure that large wood structures are performing their intended purpose, periodic assessments took place. The maintenance assessment included the characterisation of the structures in terms of stability and an assessment of material integrity and deterioration. After the large wood installation period, in December 2021, we carried out monthly visits for the first 6 months, and then bimonthly visits for the remainder of the first years. After this, we assessed the large wood every six months. </br></br> </br></br>Anecdotal feedback from local communities and stakeholders further reinforces the success of our restoration project. Through our regular volunteering events we gathered valuable insights from the community, from appreciation of improvements to habitat quality to new recreational opportunities, such as the use of the new bridge for bird watching. In addition, the dissemination of information about our project through news articles, videos, and interviews emphasised the beneficial effects of our restoration efforts on the RBI catchment area.oration efforts on the RBI catchment area.)
• Case study:Welland for People and Wildlife Project  + (Quality of habitats An environment must pr … Quality of habitats</br>An environment must provide idyllic conditions for the persistence of vegetation and wildlife. The restoration has delivered clearer water, with better oxygenation, and improved flow preventing silt build-ups and stagnation. There is more riparian space, allowing habitats to expand and communities to mature. Due to the partnership with the EA through their fish passage project, all impoundments to fish and eel movements have been removed, allowing free passage and mixing of populations for the entire project reach.</br>In addition, shallower riffled areas have become ideal for fish spawning; total number of areas suitable for spawning has increased from 12 to 52. 40 of these have been observed as actively used for spawning by Sticklebacks, Minnow, Chub and Dace. </br>Ongoing sampling will determine how much of an ecological recovery the river has made towards a more natural state. The objective of ‘Improving the habitats’ is considered fulfilled, however this will be an ongoing improvement as the restoration works mature.</br>Biodiversity</br>Both marginal and emergent plants have thrived. Varieties are more diverse and abundant along the water’s edge. Surveys show the previously 2 dominant species have been reduced, and now there are 10 prevailing species. Several species have naturally returned indicating the environment is now more favourable to support diverse aquatic life. </br>There has been an increase in the diversity of fish species; however decreases in total catch numbers and decrease in body size. With the barrier removal, the fish are no longer restricted and so have spread into the newly opened areas. Fish (and eels) have been seen further upstream than before, and in large numbers. Trout are freely able to connect with upstream wild populations. However, during surveys of the restored reach, fewer numbers are caught – this is thought to be due to 2 factors; 1) space - weirs before created a ‘catching fish in a barrel’ scenario, 2) predators – Otters have been frequently using the restored river to fish, and are thought to have a holt nearby. </br>There has been an increase in species richness of aquatic macroinvertebrates. Particular improvement is seen in the riffle habitat where diversity, abundance and biomass have increased for aquatic macroinvertebrates. </br>There is now a much wider variety of habitats. The original 4 dominant habitats types have been reduced or replaced with other key varieties, giving a total of 13 types. Homogenous stretches where 1 or 2 habitats dominated have been replaced with multiple types of habitat, distributed more evenly between types. In addition, there has been a decrease in the less beneficial habitats (for metabolic rate processing) of cobble, emergent and boulder, with an increase in valuable marginal, submerged, algae and woody material habitats. </br>There has been an average increase of 1.6mg/l/s-1 of oxygen within the restored reach. This is due to an increase in photosynthesis and a decrease in the sediment oxygen demand. </br>The objective of ‘Increasing the biodiversity of the river Welland through Market Harborough’ is considered part achieved, but study is ongoing for a 5-year period to thoroughly assess the impact.</br></br>Flow diversity</br>The flow seen across the whole project reach has diversified. The removal of weirs and insertion of riffle-pool habitat has led to a replacement of stagnated monotonous flow with fast paced riffles and slow gentle pools. </br>Water clarity has improved due to a reduction in the stagnation effect. Stagnation before the works had led to suspended sediment dropping out behind weirs, and encouraging weed growth across the channel. The works creating a continuous flow has removed this issue, and reduced monoculture weed choking the channel.</br>Similarly, measures taken to reduce erosion risk (coir matting, gravel topping, planting and woody lattice deflectors) have led to a reduction in sediment lost in the reach, resulting in clearer water. The objective of ‘reducing the stagnation and sluggish flow of the river’ is considered fulfilled but study is ongoing to assess the geomorphological response.</br>Visual aesthetics</br>Before works the river was deep-sided, stagnant, muddy watered ditch. Now the river is clear, diversely flowing channel with shallowed margins abundant with variety of flowering and non-flowering aquatic plants. </br>Birds have become more conspicuous users of the river. Common birds are seen bathing and hunting insects from the surface. Birds such as Grey Wagtail have increased in abundance, including the number of breeding pairs. Kingfishers have been sighted frequently, nesting in some of the uncovered banks, and hunting in the now clear shallow waters. Otters have also been frequent users of the river, enjoying the improved fishing, and easy access into and out of the river.</br>All these aspects have led to positive and complimentary feedback from individuals and community groups concerning the visual transformation of the river.</br>Community use and interaction</br>Community involvement during the design stages and a subsequent sense of community ownership was seen as a key goal for project success. Multiple evening discussion and group meetings drew gatherings between 50-150 people. Physical activities were also popular, attracting between 8-40 people, and a Bioblitz drew hundreds of visitors over 24 hours. Wildlife watching groups have formed for the local Kingfishers, Otters and general wildlife with Facebook pages to post images and updates.</br>The river is now widely regarded as an amenity to preserve, evidenced by maintenance promises offered by community groups, including regular river litter picks. Landowners for every section of the river also agreed by contract to maintain the upkeep of the restored river as required.</br>Nine primary schools have been involved in pond dipping and river lessons; also a secondary school has been involved through assembly demonstrations and presentations. Two Scouting groups have taken part in wildlife walks, bird box building and painting. The use of the river for educational purposes will continue - with easier and safer access to the river installed throughout the Town. Groups and individuals are able to access the river without difficulty, demonstrated by more children using the river to play post restoration works. the river to play post restoration works.)
• Case study:Glaisdale Beck Restoration Project  + (Recording the length of riparian habitat n … Recording the length of riparian habitat not accessed by stock - on farm surveys and mapping were undertaken to create a baseline of the area prior to improvement works being delivered. An additional layer of final improvement works has subsequently been mapped.</br></br>Monitoring the increase of ground cover and abundance and diversity of plant and tree species in newly created buffer strips - fixed point photographs were taken before improvement works were delivered, and photographs were taken again very shortly after works were been completed. As we expect an ecological lag time to detect the benefits of the improvement works delivered, these fixed point photographs will be repeated again at key sites in three years time to assess long term change.</br></br>Monitoring newly planted trees and ensuring tree stakes and guards are upright and secure - newly planted trees will be monitored over the next five years by each farmer, who will report to the Catchment Partnership Officer if any have died (so that they can be replaced), or if any work is needed such as re-staking after high flow conditions. </br></br>Monitoring bank stabilisation: this work will be monitored using fixed-point photographs.</br></br>Monitoring water quality, before and after restoration works, and highlighting any pollution incidents - we have baseline data of macro-invertebrate monitoring to family level identification and resulting BMWP scores using standard three minute kick samples at eight sites. These samples were collected in Autumn 2014 and Spring 2015. We undertook some volunteer lead Riverfly Monitoring surveys before restoration works were delivered at two sites on Glaisdale Beck. Following the restoration works Riverfly Monitoring is being undertaken at these two sites each month from May - October 2016 and for future years as we expect an ecological lag time (around three years for invertebrates). Our Riverfly Monitoring volunteers are now also recording phosphate and nitrate levels. We also hope to develop a new monitoring site in Glaisdale Beck to assess phosphate levels.</br></br>Following the commencement of the works (May 2016), an ecological lag time is expected before benefits to water quality and the riparian habitat will be evident. Our monitoring planner will enable us to record these benefits in due course.us to record these benefits in due course.)
• Case study:Creamery Weir fish barrier easement  + (Removal took place relatively recently, an … Removal took place relatively recently, and so monitoring has yet to be undertaken. Site visits are planned for early 2017, and in the longer term Galloway Fisheries Trust will carry out electrofishing surveys upstream of the site in order to compare the data with pre-works survey results.re the data with pre-works survey results.)
• Case study:Restoration of R. Odelouca  + (Research actions included in the protocol … Research actions included in the protocol were: </br>• characterization of the presently existing composition and structure of the aquatic and riparian vegetation in the Odelouca river and assessment of its integrity and longitudinal continuity; </br>• characterization of in stream habitats and banks; assessment of quality and degree of human disturbance; </br>• Characterization of key animal communities of the river banks (birds) and river channel (macroinvertebrates and fish) and their relation with riparian and habitat features and human disturbance;</br>• development of nursery practices for local woody species and best methodologies for field implanting during rehabilitation, </br>• The study of the functional role of riparian communities in shaping and structuring in-stream habitats and driving river processes.</br>o Application of this knowledge to the development of rehabilitation proposals for selected river stretches (next phase).</br>• Modelling abiotic and biotic changes resulting from river rehabilitation actions. Validation of the model results through biomonitoring.</br>The next phase of activities carried out following the work described above comprised:</br>• Development and implementation of a proposal for a programme of requalification and rehabilitation measures for Odelouca riparian galleries and fish habitats for selected river stretches;</br>• Monitoring of requalification and rehabilitation measures for Odelouca riparian galleries and fish habitats at sites situated along a selected reach of river.</br></br>A set of monitoring sites provides data that (i) enable validation of proposals based upon modelling results and in depth data analyses and (ii) to correct deviations from the original line of desirable change.</br></br>Characterisation of the Odelouca study site was carried out at a total of 30 sites in 2005 and 2006 covering almost the entire length of the river, except the final downstream tidal section (Fernandes et al., 2007; Hughes et al., 2009; Hughes, Ferreira & Cortes, 2008; Hughes et al., 2010). Sampling programmes comprised detailed phytosociological surveys, habitat quality surveys using the River Habitat Survey methodology (Raven et al., 2009) and sampling of biological quality elements comprising fauna and flora (BQE; benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, birds and macrophytes) and physicochemical parameters following WFD compliant protocols (INAG, 2008b; INAG, 2008c; INAG, 2008).</br>The character of BQE was assessed in relation to longitudinal changes in habitat quality, including riparian quality (Fernandes et al., 2007; Hughes et al., 2009; Hughes, Ferreira & Cortes, 2008; Hughes et al., 2010). Using the KT method which divides the study area into groups of physically similar units and then assesses the extent of given pressures within each unit, habitat and riparian integrity and types of impact were quantified in the study area (Figure 4) allowing impact specific rehabilitation and mitigation measures to be drawn up (Fernandes et al., 2007; Cortes et al., 2002). The KT method can also be applied to characterise and resolve issues in the NWRM context.</br>Macroinvertebrate communities were found to respond to key habitat elements particularly depth, flow and flow while fish species showed distinct distribution patterns in relation to large scale impacts related to changes in land use and river regulation. Bird communities associated with woods and associated features (canopy cover) predominated in the midsection but were substituted by aquatic and generalist species in the downstream reaches (Hughes et al., 2010; Hughes, Ferreira & Cortes, 2008a; Hughes et al., 2009b. </br>Cuttings and seeds from all dominant woody species were collected and tested for survival in greenhouse conditions at ISA. Regional nursery managers have been encouraged to be actively involved in this process to debate and demonstrate greenhouse techniques for growing on local tree species.</br>The well preserved middle course riparian communities, now cleared and submerged, were used as reference sites for the rehabilitation of the selected degraded river sections earmarked for rehabilitation. Emphasis was given to the river segment immediately upstream of the area to be inundated and to the river segment immediately downstream of the dam where minimal flow requirements for maintaining the aquatic biota are now applied. Habitat modelling (river 2D model) was be used to predict fish habitat preference changes according to suggested rehabilitation proposals (Boavida et al., 2011b). </br></br>Biophysical Impacts: description of the impact</br>Biophysical impacts along the Odelouca River were primarily linked to (i) the process of river regulation such as major earthworks, changes in flow regime and associated biophysical processes (natural patterns of erosion and deposition) and habitat destruction (e.g. clearance of riparian galleries) and (ii) changes in land use due to agricultural activities (Fernandes et al., 2007; Hughes et al., 2009; Hughes, Ferreira & Cortes, 2008; Hughes et al., 2010).</br>The large scale pressures describe changes in land use related to agriculture (e.g. the presence of monocultures) and associated physical impacts at lower spatial scales (river reach and habitat) to bank side and channel (clearance of native riparian vegetation, reinforcement and embankment of the banks to protect against flooding and maximize space for cultivation).</br></br>A subsequent programme of requalification, based mostly on natural engineering techniques, was carried out as part of an INTERREG SUDOE financed project called RICOVER (River Recovery in the SUDOE Region). A reach of over 7km in length, situated downstream of the now completed Odelouca dam, was selected and a total of 6 sites selected for intervention measures and subsequent monitoring. Three sites where no intervention measures were carried out were “set aside” as control sites for comparison with the 6 intervention sites as part of the ongoing monitoring programme.</br>Summary of some of the natural/bio- engineering measures</br>The construction works commenced in 2011 (Fig. 6, 7 and 8). Most of the natural engineering methods were used to rehabilitate highly eroded and degraded river banks as a result of human intervention (see Table 1) and are briefly summarized below:</br>• Resectioning of river banks and placement of geotextile (in some cases pre-treated with herbicide) to prevent erosion, retain soil moisture, prevent (re)growth of weeds and invasive plants and create favourable conditions for planted native plants;</br>• Construction of a crib wall and placement of stone filled gabions to stabilise river banks;</br>• Planting of rehabilitated banks with native plant species, collected from cuttings and seeds in the area and grown on in local nurseries (e.g. Tamarix, Oleander, buckthorn and ash);</br>• Construction of artificial islands in the river channel to augment habitat heterogeneity;</br>• Clearance of invasive riparian plant species (Arundo donax and Acacia sp).~</br></br>The rehabilitated sites were monitored in 2011 and 2012 as part of the RICOVER project (benthic macroinvertebrate and fish fauna; physicochemical quality) and in 2013 – 2014 as part of a contract with Águas do Algarve, SA (River Habitat Survey – to assess habitat quality, sampling of benthic macroinvertebrate and fish fauna; physicochemical quality and phytosociological surveys of the river banks). Water Framework Directive compliant protocols are followed in the field, with the exception of the phytosociological surveys.</br>• Total cost of the initial sub programme of compensation measure (avifauna, fish fauna, riparian galleries and monitoring studies) 5,430,664 €</br>• Project RICOVER – Rehabilitation of the riparian galleries 267,636 €.</br>• Ecological Monitoring of the Odelouca River is carried out by UTAD under contract to Águas do Algarve, SA. and is ongoing.</br>Results show overall ecological status as “Excellent” and “Good”, despite the fact that the Monchique site continues to be heavily organically polluted. This anomalous result may be due to the innate “hardiness” of the Mediterranean BQE, which are adapted to the extreme environmental conditions of drought and flow and therefore may be more resistant (and therefore less responsive) to some types of impact.t (and therefore less responsive) to some types of impact.)
• Case study:Nobles Green Ditch River Restoration  + (Research undertaken by the wildlife trusts … Research undertaken by the wildlife trusts concluded that 147 species of river invertebrates are closely associated with woody debris. These features directly provide habitat for such species. Furthermore, woody debris flow deflectors improve river morphology, creating differential areas of fast and slow flowing water. Energetic, faster flowing water improves sediment transfer, helping to keep gravels clean. It is also important for the formation of features such as riffles and pools as well as meanders. Slower flowing water provides a refuge for fish and invertebrates from high flows, and allows silt to settle out, eventually forming berms which will improve diversity of flow and plant communities.e diversity of flow and plant communities.)
• Case study:Reopening of Mjølløst stream  + (Results electrofishing October 2020 (befor … Results electrofishing October 2020 (before reopening of the stream):</br></br>Station 1 (downstreams closure): 141 trout / 100 m2.</br>Station 2 (upstreams closure): 1 trout / 100m2.</br>Station 3 (200 m ustreams closuse): 57 trout / 100m2.</br></br>Fish from upstream stations (2 and 3) is stationary trout introduced by local people from other locations.uced by local people from other locations.)
• Case study:Pearls in Peril LIFE+ GB Project - River South Esk  + (Riparian enhancement - 30,365 tress plante … Riparian enhancement - 30,365 tress planted along the riparian zone of the river.</br></br>In stream restoration - The work was completed in August 2015. Monitoring work is now underway and being implemented by the Esk District Salmon Fishery Board. Following large floods in December 2015 initial observations are showing a wider channel, improved composition of river substrates, availability of new salmonid spawning habitat, channel has become more sinuous.</br></br>Reduce nutrient and sediment input from diffuse pollution - 22 land managers were engaged, awareness raising workshop was held, and >20km of water margin fencing was facilitated across the target area.ncing was facilitated across the target area.)
• Case study:River Colne Riparian Tree Planting  + (Riparian trees provide shade, which not on … Riparian trees provide shade, which not only keeps the water cooler, but also helps control excessive weed and algal growth.</br>Cooler water not only contains more oxygen, but many fish and invertebrates are sensitive to increasing temperature. This is likely to be exacerbated as temperatures increase due to climate change. In the future the tree roots and woody debris from fallen branches and tree trunks will provide important in-channel habitat and flow diversity, providing refuge for fish and invertebrates from both predators and high flows. Trees also help stabilise the banks, reducing erosion as well as improving infiltration and intercepting pollution and sediment. Reduced sediment transfer prevents the smothering of important gravel habitat, and can reduce pesticide and nutrient run off. Tree planting therefore not only provides important habitat but improves water quality and can reduce the need for expensive river maintenance. the need for expensive river maintenance.)

• Case study:Norman Park Bromley.  + (River Corridor Survey.)

• Case study:R Derwent Abutment & Buttress Removal  + (River morphology recovering well. No negative impacts from subsequent major flood events including 'Storm Desmond' December 2015)
• Case study:Bird reserve “Los Albardales” (Madrid)  + (Scientific banding for Acrocephalus paludicola, enviromental education campaigns, monitoring of passerines during winter. As a result, populations of many passerines have increased.)
• Case study:Morava restoration project  + (See the latest monitoring results on the projects webpage http://www.life-march.at/monitoring.html)
• Case study:MisbourneRiverAction  + (See: http://www.misbourneriveraction.org/node/18 , http://www.misbourneriveraction.org/node/20 , etc)
• Case study:Lower Woodsford  + (Several monitoring technqiues will be employed as part of this project including: Fixed point photography SEdiment sampling Electro Fishing Aerial Photography)
• Case study:River Nent: Abandoned Metal Mines  + (Significant water quality monitoring of th … Significant water quality monitoring of the River Nent and the point source discharges from the abandoned metal mines has been carried out by the Environment Agency in recent years.</br>The water quality results from 3 of the main discharges are summarised below. As the concentrations of metals and rate of flow is variable in discharges like these, the figures below are presented as minimum to maximum ranges taken from the EA catchment characterisation report.</br></br>Caplecleugh </br>• Zinc:2700 - 8810 kg/yr</br>• Lead: 0 – 10 kg/yr</br>• Cadmium: 0 - 10 kg/yr</br></br>Rampgill</br>• Zinc: 170 - 400 kg/yr</br>• Lead: 0 – 2kg/yr</br>• Cadmium: 0.24 - 0.76 kg/yr</br></br>Haggs</br>• Zinc: 2000 – 5100 kg/yr</br>• Lead: 0 – 1 kg/yr </br>• Cadmium: 2 – 3.3 kg/yr</br></br>River Nent at Alston</br>• Zinc: 2300 - 35000 kg/yr</br>• Lead: 20 – 600 kg/yr</br>• Cadmium: 10 - 90 kg /yr 20 – 600 kg/yr • Cadmium: 10 - 90 kg /yr)
• Case study:Remeandering of the Drugeon and integrated management of its catchment  + (Since 1997, the restoration works have all … Since 1997, the restoration works have allowed the recovery of 7 km of meanders and about 300 ha of wetlands and dry grasslands. </br>The monitoring showed an improvement in habitats quality, although variable depending on the restoration techniques used and on the specific stretches. Anomalies in relation to species distribution suggested impacts due to diffuse chemical pollution (wood processing, rail network ballast, etc.) for which specific measures have been defined. Soon after the works the groundwater table raised by several tens of cm, and later as much as 70 to 80 cm in the upstream and middle Drugeon . </br>The diversity of the techniques used and the extended monitoring allowed to draw some conclusions about the experience, e.g.: the deepening of meanders must be very limited, it is better to undersize the bed and choose an almost rectangular section, allowing self-adjustments of the bed by the river dynamics ; filling of the straight channel should take into account the compaction of the filling material, in order to avoid that the old channel is reactivated during floods.</br>The local population is globally satisfied with the results of the project. The budget showed that the cost of restoration was of the same order of magnitude of the expenses for the straightening of the river system. </br>Since 2003, the site is part of the Ramsar network. In 2004, a prefectural decree issued a protected biotope status on 3,000 hectares of wetlands. </br>The future restoration measures will be more directed towards the improvement of water quality by treating urban wastewater , renewing networks and controlling agricultural pollution.ks and controlling agricultural pollution.)
• Case study:Gastersche Diep  + (Since the introduction of this large quantity of dead wood, water levels have risen between 0.27 and 0.65 m. The stream bed has risen by 0.17 m due to sediment deposition.)
• Case study:River Stour habitat enhancements at Great Bradley and Little Bradley  + (Site visits with Fisheries, Biodiversity and Geomorphology team and fixed point photography will be used pre- and post-restoration to monitor the evolution of the works over time. Still to be completed.)
• Case study:Reestvervangende leiding  + (So far, there have been no flooding proble … So far, there have been no flooding problems because of the change in vegetation. However, the observed years were quite dry and had no large peak in discharge. Further monitoring will have to show the effects of this measure in years with a high discharge peak.asure in years with a high discharge peak.)
• Case study:Newe Fish Pass Improvements project  + (Some monitoring of the pass will enable th … Some monitoring of the pass will enable the Board and Trust to ascertain if the remedial works have proved to be effective. If feasible the River Don Trust hope to use an underwater camera to ascertain if fish are passing though the pass under a wide range of flows.ough the pass under a wide range of flows.)
• Case study:Delivering Multiple Benefits for Water on Foston Brook  + (Spot sampling for phosphate at 8 points th … Spot sampling for phosphate at 8 points through the Foston Brook catchment on 3 occasions</br>Metaldehyde testing in the lower, arable part of the catchment.</br>With support from the Rivers Trust we also used 'Farmscoper' to find out which actions would have the greatest impact on phosphate levels and used this to make a bespoke leaflet for farmers.</br></br>We had hoped to be able to impact on localised flooding issues in the village of Scropton and although our work should have generally a positive influence the effects will be too diffuse to demonstrate in terms of flooding, and a more local capital solution is being considered by the Lead Flood Authority.ng considered by the Lead Flood Authority.)
• Case study:Bird reserve “Riet Vell” (Tarragona)  + (Stablish crops of ecologic rice, regenerate habitats of wetlands enviroments, recover local vegetation and conserve aquatic birds. As a result, new natural spaces have been created and local vegetation and wildlife has recovered.)
• Case study:Test and Itchen River Restoration Strategy  + (Students at the University of Southampton are monitoring the Bossington Estate project, and are working with the Environment Agency on other sites too.)
• Case study:Snelle Loop  + (Students of the HAS Hogeschool have found … Students of the HAS Hogeschool have found that the measures have had a positive effect on the ecology. There is now more diversity in macroinvertebrates, including the common clubtail and certain heteroptera species. Hydromorphological effects were positive as well. The wood packages have created more variation in flow velocity and substrate. The backwater effects of the wood created a more favourable hydraulic gradient in the stream. It also requires much less maintenance now. The large improvement in ecological status may also be related to the increased shading, but it is still too soon to conclude that.but it is still too soon to conclude that.)
• Case study:Strengthening associated biodiversity of habitat 92A0 and control of Invasive Alien Species in the Segura River (LIFE + Ripisilvanatura)  + (Surveys have been carried out to study bio … Surveys have been carried out to study biodiversity indicators focused on five components:</br> </br>- indigenous riparian habitats and their ecological quality (vegetation</br></br>- Physicochemical water quality</br></br>- Aquatic macroinvertebrates and quality index</br></br>- Riparian birds</br></br>- Semi-aquatic vertebrates: Otter (Lutra lutra) and water rat (Arvicola sapidus)</br></br></br>In addition, other faunistic taxa(amphibians and reptiles, bats and molluscs) have been incorporated as a goal of monitoring.been incorporated as a goal of monitoring.)
• Case study:Sutcliffe Park  + (Surveys have shown that park visits have i … Surveys have shown that park visits have increased significantly. And people who used the park before, are now staying longer. One in four only started visiting the park after the improvements.</br></br>*The number of park visits increased by 73% </br>*People stay longer, on average 47 minutes per visit compared to 34 minutes </br>*Total time spent in the park per person per month increased by more than 3.5 hours </br>*28% of people surveyed started visiting only recently, due to the improvements </br>*More people visited more often, stayed longer and were more likely to visit to exercise and for health </br>*Analysis showed that visitors’ self esteem increased the longer they had spent exercising in the natural environment. </br>*Local green spaces are an important health resource for surrounding communities. </br></br>'''83% of visitors feel differently in the park now the River Quaggy runs though it, because of increased biodiversity, better opportunities for recreation, and the peacefulness and relaxation of being near water. </br></br>Before restoration, Sutcliffe Park was a flat green area, lacking biodiversity, with the Quaggy River running in an underground culvert. Interesting bird species have now been seen in the new wetlands including heron, little ringed plover, common sandpiper, wagtails including yellow and grey, with linnets and goldfinches feeding on the groundsel. Equally as exciting are the numbers of dragonflies and damselflies that can be seen around the lake, in the wetland pools and along the Quaggy River. Emperor dragonflies (Europe's largest species) have colonised the park and have been seen ovipositing (egg laying) in the water bodies and the river channel soon after completion of the scheme. Large numbers of the attractive red common darter, black tailed skimmer, common blue and blue tailed damselflies can also be seen using the marginal plants in summer time. Water figwort, celery leaved buttercup and gypsywort are all valuable species which have self seeded along the river channel. Bats have also been detected along the river corridor.</br></br>The re-naturalisation of the river for flood management and re-landscaping work has lead to the site being recently designated as a local nature reserve.ntly designated as a local nature reserve.)
• Case study:Test and Itchen River Restoration Strategy 2  + (Surveys of macroinvertebrates, macrophytes … Surveys of macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, fish communities and juvenile salmonids are conducted by the Environment Agency before and after restoration work on some reaches. In some cases River Habitat Survey, HabScore, and MORPH surveys have also been carried out. </br>Extensive before and after surveys have also been carried out by external parties. For example, Southampton University PhD students have been monitoring some restored sites for several years (yet to be published) and Sparsholt College students have carried before and after fish surveys on the River Test. </br>One technique used to record change has been before and after photography. Images have the power to show dramatic change between before and after completion. </br>At one reach the Environment Agency asked anglers to complete a questionnaire which will be repeated to determine perceptions of the river before and after restoration. This is more than just a satisfaction survey, as it seeks to capture emotions and values. </br>Feedback from land and river-owners and river keepers is crucially important to evaluating the works and shaping future schemes. </br>To date all the flora and fauna survey work has shown the benefits of each restoration and that the goals and objectives of the strategy are being achieved.ctives of the strategy are being achieved.)
• Case study:Biodiversity conservation and recovery in the river basin Asón  + (Technical studies were completed, authoris … Technical studies were completed, authorisations obtained and management plans were prepared for the three sites. </br></br>A total of 25 Cantabrian chamois (''Rupicapra pyrenaica parva'') were reintroduced and seven young were born, bringing the total to 32 animals present at the end of the project.</br>Some 62 ha of land was bought (34 plots) and reforested with beech (''Fagus silvatica'') forest, and agreements were signed for the reforestation on an additional 23 ha. An agreement to lease 30 ha of holm oak forest was obtained. Agreements with hunting associations to lease hunting rights and create no-hunting zones were signed for 4 226 ha within the SCIs. Forestry management included planting of trees, protecting trees with photodegradable guards, creating fire breaks, and scrub clearance. As a result of this project work, monitoring showed that numbers of the following species had increased: wolf, European hare (''Lepus europaeus''), Roe deer (''Capreolus capreolus''), common wood pigeon (''Columba palumbus'') and Golden eagle (''Aguila chrysaetos''). Fencing was erected at the entrance to a cave, which was being used for sheltering livestock, to reduce disturbance to several colonies of two Habitats Directive Annex II bat species (''Rinolophus ferrumequinum'' and ''R. hipposideros''). Since its installation, the colonies have increase from 12 to 22. Three dams were to be removed on the Asón river – but this was revised to the building of fish passes instead. These were not established in the project duration although the necessary permissions were obtained. After an environmental impact assessment and hydrological studies, 12.5 ha of the Montehano salt marsh was re-flooded and 13 ha of exotic species, such as Eucalyptus, were removed. Surveillance patrols managed fire risk and hunting, as well and ecological monitoring. An interpretive centre was set up and outreach included school children, farmers, fishermen, hunters, tourists and cavers. In addition to the land the project purchased, a further 63 ha were ceded by councils and associations for restoration and conservation.</br></br>At the end of the project, the Foundation obtained an Interreg IIIB [Interreg is an EU-funded programme, IIIB deals with transnational co-operation involving national, regional and local authorities] project (“Waterwaysnet”) to allow the awareness-raising and habitat investigation actions to continue.</br></br>The broad awareness-raising campaign has reached women’s associations, schoolchildren (12 schools, 1 500 students in 2000-2001), the general public, farming and fishing unions, sports associations(cavers), tourism-related institutions. In all, some 35 institutions have been informed about the project.ions have been informed about the project.)
• Case study:Hoveton Wetlands Restoration Project  + (Technically robust information will be ava … Technically robust information will be available to inform the Hoveton Wetlands Restoration Project, increased understanding of the wider implications of the project on Broad fisheries status as a whole. Benefits include angler participation and support for the restoration projects.</br>The objectives are to significantly improve the condition of the lake by creating clear water conditions in which a variety of plants and animals thrive. NE are leading on an ambitious £4.5m project funded by LIFE+ and Heritage Lottery Fund to undertake sediment removal and biomanipulation of the fish populations with the aim of resorting the lake to good status including for fish. Our aim is to support our partners in this project, add to our understanding of Broadland fisheries, and shallow lake restoration measures.es, and shallow lake restoration measures.)
• Case study:Beneden Regge  + (Thanks to the measures, the river valley landscape has become more varied, which has been good for tourism. The valley now features a series of long natural levees.)
• Case study:LIFE ECORICE - Vercelli rice fields  + (Thanks to ECORICE, 1.60 ha of new wetlands … Thanks to ECORICE, 1.60 ha of new wetlands have been created in a purely rice paddy environment, 5 ha of marshy areas have been reconstructed and 2 km of irrigation channels have been renatured through the plantation of new arboreal-shrubby country hedges and of more than 1 ha of new shrubs and trees. The ECORICE interventions are recent, therefore it will be necessary to wait a few more years to be able to make significant correlations between the   interventions realized in the areas and the increase of the nests concentration so as to evaluate their effectiveness, while the requalification activities have surely led to an important overall increase in terms of covered habitats and expected formations of nests.    </br>The Integrated Action Plan of ECORICE, whose objective was to identify priorities, expected results and sharable actions in the view of a careful management of rice cultivation capable to conserve and protect high biodiversity values, takes into account the precious environmental and agronomic data acquired through surveys performed within the IRFEN network (International Rice Field Ecological Network) and illustrates actions which can be well replicated within the rural development policies at European level.al development policies at European level.)
• Case study:The Pow Beck Improvement Project  + (The Eden Demonstration Test Catchment (Ede … The Eden Demonstration Test Catchment (EdenDTC) project will carry out monitoring of stream water quality and biology. This includes monitoring nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment and water volume. </br>Additionally before and after photographs will be taken of project sites and electrofishing surveys take place within the catchment.g surveys take place within the catchment.)
• Case study:River Trent, Bucknall Park  + (The Friends of Bucknall Park, supported by … The Friends of Bucknall Park, supported by the catchment partnership will carry out RiverLife monitoring 4 times per year. The Environment Agency have carried out Electrofishing surveys on site. Local sighting or issues are reported via the catchment coordinator.re reported via the catchment coordinator.)
• Case study:Lower Otter Restoration Project  + (The Lower Otter Restoration Project is ret … The Lower Otter Restoration Project is returning the Lower Otter Valley and Otter Estuary to a more natural state and function by harnessing nature-based solutions. Without pre-emptive adaptation, the valley would not be sustainable in the face of climate change, the effects of which are already being felt. These impacts are further exacerbated by man-made modifications for commercial and agricultural purposes that have been implemented over the last 200 years. </br></br>The main components of LORP are the reconnection of the River Otter and the reintroduction of wetland habitat. This habitat acts as a natural filter for pollutants, traps carbon, and increases biodiversity by providing important feeding and breeding grounds for a variety of species of wading birds, fish and invertebrates. </br>By strategically breaching embankments, including a final 70-meter breach, and creating a new network of natural channels, the tide will flow back into its historic floodplain, providing a multitude of benefits, including the above.</br></br>Through these natural solutions, LORP demonstrates that it is possible to adapt to the challenges of climate change, reverse significant habitat and biodiversity loss, and improve degraded systems by working alongside nature, rather than against it.</br></br>The project is not only improving the ecological health of the Otter Valley and Estuary, but also providing important socio-economic benefits for local communities, such as improved flood resilience and infrastructure, and enhanced wellbeing, health, and recreational activities. </br></br>This makes LORP a shining example of how natural processes can be harnessed to provide multiple benefits to wildlife, the environment, and people. By working with nature, the project is helping to create a more resilient, sustainable, and brighter future for the Otter Valley, its estuary, and surrounding communities.</br></br>* Restoration has led to a new National Nature Reserve in the ‘King’s Series’: an extension of the Pebblebed Heaths NNR to include the Lower Otter Restoration Project area – a managed realignment scheme delivered by the EA with a budget input of approx. £30 million. </br>* The new NNR will be further extended by the new Round 2 Landscape Recovery ‘Heaths to Sea’ project under ELMS. It will connect the Pebblebed Heaths with the Otter estuary over 4000ha, and restore 175ha of wetland, 18km of river and create 96ha of riparian woodland.iver and create 96ha of riparian woodland.)