For Affinity Water
Restoration of the River Mimram
We created new habitats for this valuable chalk river, and increased light levels for plants to thrive.
Chalk stream habitats
The River Mimram is one of Hertfordshire’s valuable and rare chalk streams. We were asked to design and build a restoration project, with the aim of achieving a ratio of 70:30 direct sunlight to dappled shade, while retaining important specimen trees and avoiding sensitive habitats
Firstly, to identify any key constraints and opportunities, our highly qualified ecologists and consultants carried out a range of surveys. The results indicated signs of otter, badger and water vole – and there were several ivy clad trees which had bat roost potential.
Bringing new life to the area
Method statements were compiled for operatives to use when working near protected species. And our licensed bat ecologist used a mobile elevating work platform to carry out a bat roost assessment of trees.
Applying all this information, our teams of tree surgeons and operatives carried out sensitive felling, coppicing, and pollarding of bankside trees. Other enhancement works included the creation of an otter holt, and the construction of a viewing platform.
The river has responded well to the increased light levels, with surveys by the Environment Agency fisheries officer finding that it was much improved for spawning brown trout.
