The infilling and degradation of ponds has played a key role in the decreasing populations of the great crested newt.

A Forgotten Landscape is creating and restoring several ponds and wet areas, which are crucial for this species to breed, in the Lower Severn Vale Levels.

The project will include surveying the species, which will create new records and provide more accurate mapping of the species distribution locally.

This will provide the opportunity for trained volunteer surveyors from the great crested newt pond survey to develop their skills, and for new wildlife recorders to gain experience and mentoring to enable them to apply for a licence enabling them to carry out great crested newt surveys.

The project will benefit local landowners by:

• re-establishing ponds;
• contributing towards the drainage of farmland;
• providing a greater understanding of the distribution of the protected species; and
• providing a greater understanding of the appropriate regime of management for both its water and land based habitat.

If you would like to volunteer, please get in touch.