It may seen strange to
construct ponds at a reservoir site but this does provide us
with the opportunity to control water levels and manage different
ponds for different specific animal groups such as amphibians,
reptiles, dragonflies and children! In some areas we have used
a clay-impregnated liner to provide a seal. This material is
simply overlapped and covered with a thick layer of soil. Once
it gets wet it swells and forms a permanent, self-sealing barrier.
Even if a stick is pushed through the liner it should re-seal
itself.
To encourage dragonflies to breed the ponds have been heavily
planted with a mixture of local native plants. Fish are deliberately
excluded and a pump provides a top-up if the water level drops
to a dangerously low level. Damselflies are nearly always in
abundance over the summer and are usually accompanied by various
dragonflies including the impressive emperor dragonfly. The
growth of norfolk reed has been particularly impressive since
planting and this has attracted some exciting bird species including
reed buntings, water rail and the elusive bittern.
During construction
two wooden platforms were added to provide safe and convenient
access for pond dipping. This always proves to be a very popular
activity with young and old alike. Newts, dragonfly larvae,
water boatmen and mayfly are frequently discovered along with
the occasional water scorpion. Facilities can be made available
to visiting schools and groups. Overall the ponds have been
one of the most successful additions and we have been encouraged
enough to increase their number over the next few years.
