Chalk Steams of Lincolnshire Project

Introduction:

The Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project (LCSP) was set up in March 2004 and brings together a partnership of organisations that are actively working together to conserve and enhance this nationally important resource. The Environment Agency, Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service, English Nature, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, Anglian Water and the Wild Trout Trust are taking action to ensure that the nature conservation, landscape, community and economic interests are taken into account when working on chalk streams.

The Project partners meet regularly to undertake work such as the completion of surveys on chalk springs, streams and blow wells and the development of a demonstration site of chalk stream restoration on the Waithe Beck. To raise awareness of the project and the importance of managing these habitats correctly six fact sheets have been created and a number of events have been held.

The Project has already contributed to a number of the objectives and targets outlined in the Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan and the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB Management Plan 2004-2009. Resources have been secured to fund a dedicated Project Officer to make significant inroads into delivering the remaining required actions. These will be focused in the Wolds but will also be undertaken in the wider Lincolnshire landscape where the appropriate habitat requires action.

Wider affiliation:

To maximise the benefits, the Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project will become affiliated to the national Water for Wildlife programme. This is a national programme established by Water UK, the Environment Agency and the Wildlife Trusts and focuses on the delivery of wetland biodiversity targets common to the partners at both regional and local level. There are currently 20 other project officers around the country involved in Water for Wildlife initiatives. The LCSP will benefit from affiliation through access to support from the Water for Wildlife national manager, national media campaigns, joint grant applications, sharing of publication material and best practice, etc.

Management:

Funding has been secured for 2 years, with a strong indication likelihood of a further 12 months funding. The LCSP partners will provide the regular steer for the Project Officer, with day to day management provided through the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service Manager. Other members of the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service will also provide support for administration, promotion and other specialist areas. The Project Officer will work under the auspices of the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service and would be employed by the host authority Lincolnshire County Council, subject to LCC terms and conditions.

Further information:

http://www.lincswolds.org.uk/ http://www.lincsbap.org/ http://www.ukbap.org.uk/