Ecology Surveys

Ecological surveys have played a significant part in shaping and bringing the Reclaim the Rain initiatives to life. Across Suffolk, we’ve carried out a wide range of assessments to investigate the presence of species such as badgers, bats, newts, water voles, reptiles, and more. These surveys helped us understand the ecological value of the areas we’re working in and ensure that we minimise disruption to existing species and habitats. In many cases, they’ve also allowed us to identify additional opportunities for habitat enhancement beyond the benefits that come from integrating sustainable water management, such as, stacking log piles, adding stages, scrapes and depth variations within the pond mosaic, utilising rain garden planting schemes to support pollinators during flood and drought conditions, and installing bird boxes.

We've worked closely with Suffolk County Council’s Ecology Team and external consultants to minimise impact on valuable existing habitats as we move through project delivery.

This has included implementing reasonable avoidance measures, adapting plans or proposal areas to protect sensitive species, adjusting the timing of works to prevent disturbance during key breeding or activity seasons, and ensuring each of our schemes will have a lasting positive environmental impact.

There’s ample opportunity to combine water management and ecology priorities, and this collaboration helps to create truly sustainable environments, supporting the needs of people and nature.