ARCHIVE PROJECTS


August 2008

SAFEGUARDING THE AQUATIC FERN - PILLWORT - FROM INVASION BY CRASSULA HELMSII (AUSTRALIAN SWAMP STONECROP)

Ecological Restoration Consultants has been commissioned to undertake a survey of Llyn Helyg, located in the Clwydian limestone area of Flintshire, North Wales.  Llyn Helyg is a man-made (18th century) lake which is approximately one kilometre in length and is home to the rare aquatic fern Pillwort (Pilularia globulifera).  Pillwort is found in scattered locations throughout the British Isles and is often locally common, as this species is at Llyn Helyg.  Pillwort has declined in the UK and across the whole of its European range.  Thus Pillwort is a Priority Species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

A growing problem at Llyn Helyg is invasion and spread of Crassula helmsii (Australian Swamp Stonecrop, also known as New Zealand Pygmyweed). The smothering habitat of Crassula helmsii is a significant threat to the Pillwort population at Llyn Helyg.  Our objective is to determine accurately the relative distribution of the two species around the entire lake margin and to devise a strategy incorporating practical measures for the long-term safeguarding of Pillwort at Llyn Helyg.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW CURRENT PROGRESS OF THIS PROJECT

October 2006


 ONE STEP BEYOND - 12th - 13th October 2006

There was a very successful meeting which explored Ecological Restoration and Creative Conservation in the United Kingdom at the Eden Project, Cornwall, at the new Education Centre, "The Core".

The purpose of the meeting was to explore the importance of people in ecological restoration and highlight "the practical and inspirational ways in which individuals may become involved in making positive contributions to ecological restoration and incorporate the cultural elements" - a serious challenge for ecologists!
A group of 50 enthusiastic participants rose to this challenge with a stimulating discussion initiated by a set of interesting lectures. Dr Putwain, of Ecological Restoration Consultants, gave a presentation about "The Bridge Between Research and the Real World".

 Click here to view the presentation.

August 2006


 DEVELOPMENT OF A BIRD STRIKE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR A LARGE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

 
Ecological Restoration Consultants was commissioned by a leading international airport to undertake a strategic assessment of actions designed to reduce the probability of collisions between birds and aircraft. Threats are posed by large single birds (e.g. Canada goose) or flocks (e.g. racing pigeon). A single large bird will cause catastrophic damage to engine fan blades and such strikes will cause take-offs to be abandoned, aircraft returning and engine shutdowns. Catastrophic air accidents have occurred with three large aircraft destroyed worldwide since 1995.

We reviewed existing sources of bird population data and bird species behaviour within a 13 kilometre radius from the airport. Local ornithologists assisted us with provision of data and expert local knowledge. A risk assessment of all significant bird habitats within the 13km target area was undertaken, including all potential hazardous locations where birds occur feeding, breeding or roosting. A longer term objective was to establish patterns of flight between sites which cross airport runways and seasonal variation in species abundance and movements. In due course a Bird Management Plan will be developed to promote the safety of air traffic based on a thorough understanding of bird behaviour and bird movement in the vicinity of the airport.  Our reports remain confidential.