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THE RURAL STEWARDSHIP SCHEME

Section 4 Farm Ponds

4.1 Why are farm ponds important?

Ponds provide an essential habitat for wildlife. They are often very rich places and are particularly important for aquatic invertebrates, wetland plants and amphibians. Especially where they connect to wetland areas, ponds are also used by a variety of mammals, birds and fish. Significant in terms of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, ponds can support species such as great-crested newt, natterjack toad, otter and water vole. Ponds have a cultural and archaeological value too. They are not just important landscape features but can, for such as mill ponds, distillery ponds or curling ponds, tell us something of the history of a place. Ponds may also be of considerable amenity value: some are used for shooting or fishing, others for boating or part of a nature reserve.

4.2 Are there any special considerations?

It will be helpful to collect some historical and ecological information about the pond before any decisions are made about the restoration work. Where associated with a semi-natural habitat such as unimproved grassland or ancient woodland, the pond is likely to be of high conservation value. Generally, the different habitats around the farm pond, such as strands of wetland plants and some shaded areas, should be maintained. Rich mixtures of native plants, some partly submerged, some floating, should be encouraged and dredging operations, in some circumstances, may actually damage the conservation interest of this habitat. Where appropriate, you should aim to create variation in depth, margin and surrounding vegetation. Where tree or shrub growth is causing excessive shading, in particular around the southern margin of the pond, this should be cut back. Stock access should be strictly limited to the provision of a watering place and then only if there is no alternative source of water for them. A strip of less intensively managed land around the pond will act as a buffer filtering pollutants from surface water. However, if the pond already has polluted sediments and large quantities of algae, it may require dredging out. The timing of the pond restoration work is important: the breeding/nesting season of, in particular, amphibians and aquatic birds using the site should be avoided. When either creating or restoring pond, professional advice at the planning stage is essential.

4.3 Where can I find guidance on pond creation and management?

SEPA, through the Habitat Enhancement Initiative (HEI) and in partnership with key environmental organisations in Scotland, has published a comprehensive guide to best practice in the management and creation of small waterbodies in Scotland entitled "Ponds, pools and lochans". This includes information on pond location, size, design, construction principles and the various uses to which ponds can be put.

4.4 What works can I carry out under the RSS that will benefit this habitat?

The following works may be carried out to benefit this habitat and will attract capital payments under the RSS:

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