Standing Water Characterisation Project
In order to increase our understanding of the current status of lakes in the North East the Environment Agency has begun surveying for aquatic plants and chemical quality. Chemical samples are taken each month for a period of 12 months whilst a plant survey is undertaken in the summer. In 2006 monitoring began at all lakes in Northumberland that are designated as Special Protection Areas (SPA), Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) or Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Monitoring will begin at an additional 3 lakes in 2007.
Survey results will be used to ensure that suitable management can be initiated at each site.
Lead partner
Environment Agency
Other partners
Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Durham Wildlife Trust, Northumbrian Water Limited, Natural England
Action plans that the project helps to deliver
Ponds, lakes and reservoirs
Start date
April 2006
End date
This project will be ongoing. Further lakes will be surveyed as funds become available.
Funded by
Environment Agency
Who to contact for further information
Fiona Morris
Environment Agency
Tyneside House
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 7AR.
