New Forest Wetland Restoration Review
Soldiers Bog The restoration of Soldiers Bog was undertaken in 2013/2014. The vegetation and ecology is still in a state of some flux as a consequence of these recent changes. However, the works undertaken appear to have been very successful with good restoration of mire and stream hydro-morphology. Further monitoring will be needed to record the development of the mire vegetation and associated stream ecology as these habitats reach equilibrium with the restored conditions.
North Oakley The restoration of North Oakley was undertaken in 2005 has been very successful. The obvious paleochannel needed little additional work other than excavation of organic material and removal of isolated earth ‘plugs’. Monitoring of erosion is recommended in the lower 30m section, from the headcut and scour pool to the join with the old channelised course. It is recommended that the use of significant quantities of woody material (including whole trees), to reduce velocities in this scouring section and to accrete gravel should be considered. Thinning of the woodland canopy and restoration of the former Blackensford Lawn would also improve the value of the floodplain vegetation communities. These are likely to revert to species rich rush pasture (Annex 1 habitat type Eu-Molinion). The currently heavily shaded floodplain is generally species poor but shows clear patterning between flooded grassy areas and higher bracken dominated areas.
Dames Slough Inclosure The restoration of Dames Slough Inclosure was undertaken in 2005. The upper two thirds of the restored River Blackwater at North Oakley Inclosure are functioning better as a meandering floodplain stream than the lower third. Comparison of the 1996 River Corridor Survey shows the magnitude of structural change that has occurred. The increased length and diversity of structure in the Blackwater have significantly improved it as a habitat for aquatic macrophytes, invertebrates and fish. The high sinuosity and comparatively small depth and width both combine to allow the river to flow out onto the floodplain in periods of high rainfall. Whilst still visible (as there is an absence of mature trees), the old in-filled channel is vegetating well (except the clay plugs which remain visible and soft under foot).
Fletchers Thorns The river restoration at Fletchers Thorns was undertaken in 2011 and has naturalised and achieved significant nature conservation benefits in a very short period of time. The excavated meandering channel of the Blackwater through Fletchers Thorns has restored connection between the river and its floodplain. The flora and vegetation of the area is still responding to these changes but is likely to be substantially improved. The old channel is re-vegetating well and can only be recognised by the discerning eye.
Akercome Bottom The restoration of Akercome Bottom was undertaken in 2010/11. Akercome Bottom restoration scheme demonstrates a wide range of wetland restoration techniques ranging from mire restoration to stream restoration within woodland and across stream side lawn. The resultant system is now largely selfsustaining and operating in sympathy with adjacent habitats. Some minor adjustments may be required to River Restoration Centre/Jonathan Cox Associates
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