… a “Splash” Course!
Natural Networks is all about collaborating! In my placement I have been getting involved with other groups and organisations to contribute to a network of natural conservation on a landscape scale. A little while ago I was given an opportunity to join the upper-aire reserves team from Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to help them create some amazing new habitat for our native white clawed crayfish.
The white clawed crayfish is our only native crayfish species, and here in Leeds we are lucky enough to have them in one of our urban water ways. The native crayfish have seen a 50% decline in numbers since the 1970s due to the both loss of viable habitat and also in suffering from competition for resources from non-native crayfish species, making it really important to support the remaining crayfish populations with appropriate habitat management.
First you drive the posts into the stream.
So, with this in mind I donned my waders and joined a small (but enthusiastic) group to help create an underwater willow hurdle (not the technical term I’m sure) which could provide the crayfish in the beck with a lots of tiny holes for foraging opportunities, shelter and a place to lay eggs where the mouths of hungry fish can’t get to them. A stable structure is also great for making sure that the vulnerable juvenile crayfish are not washed downstream in during times of fast water flow, like just after it has rained.
My day involved weaving willow branches around a line of posts, just like making a really large willow basket but then we pushed the willow all the way down to the river bed to create the submerged habitat and then the process was repeated until a type of artificial bank has formed in a process called “spiling” (pronounced “spy-ling”)… needless to say that despite the waders (and my best efforts), my smaller than average height meant I ended absolutely ringing wet! But when the progress looks this good, I really didn’t mind!
With any luck the willow we used will also continue to live at the water’s edge and in time it’s new roots will strengthen and support the river banks, which will also improve water quality as it should lessen the amount of silt washed into the river.
Finishing touches! We back filled the space behind the willow to further prevent erosion.
All in all I had a really great day and I’m looking forward to doing it all again soon… there’s lots of river to cover!
The finished product!
If you fancy having rewarding days in the river (or many other places) get in touch with TCV volunteers at Skelton Grange or Yorkshire Wildlife Trust for more information, just remember bring and extra pair of trousers!