Title: Sid/Otter catchment management plan : first annual review
Author: Environment Agency South West Region
Document Type: Monograph
Abstract:
The Rivers Sid an Otter Catchment Management Plan provides an important focus for this partnership. Otters have been increasing in numbers and distribution across Devon, however their movement into East Devon has been slow. One of the reasons for this is
thought to be a lack of suitable sites for otter holts. During early spring 1997 an otter holt was built along a stretch of the lower River Otter with materials for construction being donated by local builders. Shortly after completion the entrances to the holt were blocked by an unknown person, the blockage was subsequently removed. We are currently unsure whether the holt has been in use, but with otters being sighted along this stretch it should only a matter of time before it becomes occupied. Two other potential sites for artificial holts have been identified and permission has been granted by the landowners. In general, the otter population of the River Otter and its tributaries is promising and a further sign of the improving health of the catchment. The Wimbleball Pumped Storage Scheme was instigated by South West Water Services Ltd to augment the natural flow of water to Wimbleball Reservoir. Wimbleball Reservoir is used by both South West Water and Wessex Water, providing supplies for Wimbleball Supply Zone which includes the Sid an Otter catchment. Water is abstracted from the River Exe at Exebridge and pumped via an underground pipeline to Wimbleball where it discharges to the reservoir. This new issue combines actions previously included under the issues of siltation of spawning gravels and changes to bankside flora. It also includes new actions. Erosion is a natural process. Rivers and coastlines change as the forces of water shape the land. However, there is growing concern over the rapid erosion which is occurring in certain catchments. The Sid and Otter catchment is particularly vulnerable as its' soils are very easily eroded. In addition the increase of some agricultural practices in the catchment, such as outdoor pig farming and the growing of maize has greatJy increased soil erosion in certain parts of the catchment.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: 1998
Publication Place: Exeter
Subject Keywords: Catchment Management Plans; Water quality; Catchment management; Environmental planning; Rivers; River Quality Objectives; Bathing water; Water pollution; Nature conservation; Recreation
Geographic Keywords: Sid (Devon); East Devon catchment; Otter (river, Devon)
Extent: 21
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:805
Total file downloads: 267
Download PDF Display PDF in separate tab