National a number of weirs are being removed; for what reason are what are the ecological implications?

The debate relating to forests continues, with the Environment Secretary announcing ongoing plans for a forests panel to hold hearings across England.

The weather is becoming milder and amphibians are stirring out of hibernation and there have already been several sightings in ponds. This indicates the start of the great crested newt survey season (mid-March and mid-June)! In preparation, Ecosulis has reflected back on our newt survey results from 79 ponds in 2010 and considers how the relatively new Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) is being used and what benefits it brings to the consideration of newts and works affecting newt habitat.

Ecosulis were appointed by Rewables First to support applications for a full Abstraction and an Impoundment Licences. The scope of our appointment included undertaking an extended Phase 1 habitat, River Corridor, River Habitat and otter surveys. The results of the surveys were summarised and potential impacts and mitigation outlined in a ecological supporting statement.