Water for Wildlife
Due to the geology of the area Hampshire has some of the best chalk streams in the world including the Rivers Itchen, Avon and Test. These rivers are wildlife havens as well as important fisheries and sources of water for our consumption. They are fragile and can easily be damaged under mounting pressure from development, agriculture, abstraction and people. Their special importance for wildlife has been recognised both nationally and in a European context, and are strictly protected under various designations. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency, Natural England, Local Authorities, landowners and other partners work together to protect the flora and fauna of these rivers and conserve the natural habitats adjoining them.
A top quality chalk river has characteristic species of plants, invertebrates, fish, mammals and birds and a mosaic of habitats including gravel runs and glides, water-crowfoot beds, side channels, wet woodland and marshes.
Chalk rivers are an intrinsic part of our cultural heritage. For example, the River Itchen has been heavily modified to meet the water management needs for milling, to support the network of watermeadow systems and for navigation. Several of Hampshire's chalk rivers are also world-famous for their fly-fishing; the Test and Itchen are recognised as the birthplace of this skilful pursuit.
The present character of chalk rivers in Hampshire reflects a long history of influence from agriculture, industry and fisheries which has lead to a reduction in channel and riparian habitat quality. The cumulative effect of more intensive agricultural practices and urban development in many chalk river catchments, along with the long term impacts of climate change, could have significant effects on river flows and wildlife.
The Trust is currently undertaking conservation projects on the Rivers Anton, Loddon and Avon and is about to undertake a five year programme of river restoration work on the Itchen Navigation. New chalk river initiatives to commence in October 2008 include the Rivers Meon, Ems and Winnall Moors Nature Reserve. The Trust is also working with partners on other projects involved in conserving river wildlife.
