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The North Somerset Levels and
Moors is an extensive area of low-lying wetland adjacent to the Severn
Estuary between the Mendip Hills in the south and Bristol to the north.
It is an area rich in irreplaceable natural and historic heritage.
It contains many habitats and features which are important for wildlife:
- Grazing marsh is the name given to wet grassland criss-crossed
by drainage channels. It is recognised as a nationally important
habitat in view of the large areas lost during the last century.
It is important for many species of wetland birds including snipe
and lapwings. The rare greater horseshoe bat can be found hunting
for insects on the Levels and Moors.
- Mudflats and saltmarsh along the shore of the Severn Estuary are
recognised as habitats of international importance. The Estuary is
also recognised for its large flocks of overwintering wildfowl and
waders.
- The network of ditches (sometimes known locally as rhynes) provide habitats for a rich variety of invertebrates
such as dragonflies and plants including rare aquatic species. They
can also be valuable fisheries. The area is a frontier for recovering
otter populations expanding from their strongholds in the South West.
- The extensive network of hedgerows provide feeding grounds for birds of
prey including buzzards and owls.
- Old orchards are historic landscape features and can be important
habitats for birds and invertebrates.
History
The North Somerset Levels and
Moors is a landscape largely created by human activity. The Romans
constructed the first artificial flood defences to keep out the tides
of Severn Estuary and started to modify channels to drain large areas
of marshland.
The area still retains evidence of these earlier settlements
and has important archaeological features.
Survey and Monitoring
The project delivers a busy survey and monitoring programme that enables us to better understand the biodiversity on the Levels and Moors. The focus for the next 3 years is to assess the invertebrate and plant communities of the rhynes and surrounding wetland. The surveys will update local records as well as identify areas that may be more vulnerable and in need of restoration.
Working with Landowners
We rely on local knowledge and need the help of farmers and landowners to better understand the wildlife in this region.
Farmers have a vested interest in the ecology of their land - the programme can provide free advice and help with wildlife-friendly management techniques that aim to bring maximum benefits to species and ecosystems, whilst minimising impacts on day-to-day farming practices.
Environmental Stewardship was launched in 2005 and provides financial incentives for landowners to undertake wildlife sensitive management (for example, by creating buffer strips along rhynes and managing hedgerows sympathetically). To encourage a wide uptake of the scheme on the Levels and Moors the project provides a free support service for landowners entering, or already in, stewardship.
Living Landscape Approach
The North Somerset Wetland Programme aims to restore, recreate and reconnect the species-rich areas of wetland. For our ecosystems to survive pollution, climate change and development in the long-term, they cannot remain isolated to just protected sites and reserves. The interconnecting areas of farmland and urban green spaces need to be reconnected to allow species to move with varying environmental pressures. Working with landowners, schools, city communities and interested organisations, we strive for a Living Landscape that is ecological, economical and socially sustainable.
Funding
The North Somerset Wetland Programme is primarily funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
We are very grateful for the support of local councils who have awarded grants to the project:
Portishead Town Council (awarded Autumn 2011)
Yatton Parish Council (awarded Summer 2011)
Downloads
North Somerset Wetland Programme leaflet (pdf file)
Wetland bird leafet (A5 folded)
Vacancies
Keep an eye on our volunteering page for future vacancies with the project.
Contact
Dr Kate Pressland (Living Landscape Senior Project Officer)
E-mail the North Somerset Wetland Programme, or telephone 0117 9177270.
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