Chalk streams are a naturally rich habitat, capable of supporting
many different plants and animals. However, most of our streams
have been affected by human activity at some time, and this
can result in damage to the streams and their wildlife. Here
are just some of issues facing our streams and the solutions
being developed:
Issue:
Low
flows
Cause and effect:
Low flows
can be caused by natural drought conditions. However,
if we abstract (pump out) too much water from the aquifer,
this can also cause reduced flows and even result in rivers
drying up.
Solution:
Special schemes
are being developed and implemented by the Environment
Agency and water companies to reduce abstraction near
rivers that are affected by low flows.
Issue:
Pollution
Cause and effect:
Pollution
can come from many different sources, such as industry,
agriculture and roads. It is damaging to many plants and
animals.
Solution:
The Environment
Agency regularly monitors water quality and regulates
discharges from industry. Farmers are being encouraged
to reduce applications of chemicals on land near rivers
and to create buffer strips to stop them entering the
river.
Issue:
Loss
of good habitat
Cause and effect:
River habitats
can be lost or damaged through urban development and some
farming practices.
Solution:
Many organisations
are working to try to ensure that urban developments near
rivers do not damage river habitats. The Chalk Streams
Project is working in partnership with farmers in the
AONB to protect our streams and their wildlife. Degraded
habitat can be restored to make it suitable for wildlife
again.
Issue:
Introduced
and invasive species
Cause and effect:
Introduced
plants and animals can sometimes pose a threat to native
species by out-competing them or spreading disease.
Solution:
Where necessary,
introduced species are controlled to protect native wildlife.
conservation
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