Biodiversity Improvements at Inchgarth Reservoir

Overview:

Wader Scrapes and Biodiversity Enhancements

Working with expert considerations from our landscape design and biodiversity experts, and in collaboration with Scottish Water, we worked on two wader scrapes, exposing areas of mud and water that had become overgrown.

By removing the top layer and exposing the mud layer beneath, the scrapes create a shallow basin and small pools that will hold water throughout the year. Importantly, in the summer months, this will leave a wet, muddy area for wader chicks to feed. At the Inchgarth Reservoir, this will support wader species such as Snipe and Jack Snipe.

In addition to the wader scrapes, a 6941 m2 area has been tilled and planted up with a winter seed crop to provide a year-round source of food to help attract birds and pollinating insects to the area. Birch trees have also been planted along the perimeter of the site by IBI volunteers. These birch trees provide food and a habitat for a range of wildlife and fungai, and in turn contribute to a diverse and resilient ecosystem. Once established, they will also improve soil quality.

Scottish Water project manager Max Currie commented on the works:

Community Engagement: Inchgarth Biodiversity Initiative

To ensure the ongoing success of enhancements, the Inchgarth Biodiversity Initiative (IBI) have been a key partner, as an established group already working with Scottish Water to maintain and sustain the new habitat. They worked closely with Scottish Water and landowners to develop the site to support bird conservation and continue to volunteer to ensure the ongoing success.

Chair of the Inchgarth Biodiversity Initiative Claire Marsden said:

In addition to works at Inchgarth, Ground Control teams continue to support Scottish Water with further biodiversity enhancements as they strive for sustainable land management. This has included tree planting, hedgerow infills, grassland improvement, and creating wildflower meadows at multiple sites across Scotland.