Waveney Valley

A living landscape for the Waveney Valley.

Introduction

Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s vision for the Waveney Valley is one where wildlife flows back into the countryside and thrives alongside villages and towns. The aim is to increase connectivity between habitats allowing species to expand their range along networks of linked up habitat and adapt to the changing conditions associated with climate change.

The project will be delivered through partnership working and will have a targeted approach. This will enable significant benefits to be achieved through large scale habitat creation and restoration but also small scale actions made by farmers and landowners.

Background

The project will focus on the river Waveney between Beccles and Somerleyton in Suffolk although the aim is to eventually extend the project to include more of the Waveney Valley, and ultimately across the whole county. To achieve the vision the project employs a conservation advisor to provide proactive, targeted land management advice to farmers and landowners. This effectively engages and inspires land managers to help reconnect and improve core areas of wildlife habitat to support existing populations and encourage charismatic species such as the Barn Owl.

In addition to advisory work Suffolk Wildlife Trust are creating, enhancing and managing wildlife sites to achieve the aim of restoring, recreating and reconnecting core areas. They are also monitoring the Barn Owl boxes helping to provide an indication of their expansion in range and population.

Benefits

The Waveney Valley is not only important for Barn Owls but also for the declining Water Vole, Otter, Great Crested Newt, Reed Bunting and Yellow Hammer. These are the projects flagship species with wet woodland being the flagship habitat. Populations of important species sensitive to environmental change such as the Barn Owl and Water Vole can be monitored and used as an indicator of success.

The Waveney Valley has areas designated for their wildlife value such as SSSI’s and County Wildlife Sites. This project aims to link together these core areas, increasing landscape permeability and reducing the impacts of fragmentation through habitat creation and restoration. In addition to many wildlife benefits the local community will benefit from the improved environment and quality of life. It is planned to improve outdoor access and recreation to the sites with opportunities for young farmers, ESW employees, children and the public to actively participate in events, walks and JAH (Just An Hour staff days).

Through this project farmers and landowners will have the chance to improve land management and make the most of environmental stewardship grants enabling habitat and wildlife initiatives to be implemented. The landscape will be more stable with enhancement, wildlife will thrive and water quality improve through a reduction in pollution, erosion and sedimentation. Small steps made by individuals can make a significant difference in helping to build a more robust ecosystem giving wildlife a better chance of survival. 

Project partners

Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Suffolk Ornithology Group
Bungay Council
Beccles Council

For more information on the Suffolk Community Barn Owl Project and how you can contribute please visit their website.