One of the best remaining freshwater landscapes in Britain will receive more protection, thanks to a new project led by wildlife conservation charity Freshwater Habitats Trust. The Irfon catchment in mid-Wales is the focus for the initiative, which is funded by the Nature Networks Programme, delivered by the Heritage Fund, on behalf of the Welsh Government.
Running until 2026, the River Irfon Catchment project will enhance freshwater habitats for wildlife in the River Irfon, its tributaries and floodplains. Working with local landowners, Freshwater Habitats Trust will reduce pollution, protect and create wetland habitats to increase the range of freshwater plant and animals in the catchment, which stretches from Abergwesyn to Builth Wells.
The project will focus on protecting wetland Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in the River Irfon catchment. Freshwater Habitats Trust will work with Natural Resources Wales to identify sites that could be improved through management.
Freshwater Habitats Trust will create three new floodplain wetland mosaic habitats, building a network of ponds and pools on historic floodplains. The charity will also establish 20 new priority ponds in the catchment. Priority ponds are recognised nationally for having particularly high conservation value and supporting important freshwater species.
More on:
Posted On: 15/01/2024