Calver Marshes Widlife Project

Calver Marshes Wildlife Project

Wetlands are now scarce in Britain as many have been drained for agriculture. Calver Marshes, with its adjacent streams, ponds and wet woodlands, is one of the finest areas of wetland in the Peak District. There is a wealth of wildlife including rare and vulnerable species.

Stoke Brook is important for water voles and brook lamprey, two nationally important species of conservation concern. Water voles are Britain's fastest declining mammal. They make nests in burrows in the stream banks. Brook lamprey are small fish, which make nests in the gravel at the bottom of the brook.

These species, and many other plants and animals, depend on clean, pollution-free water to survive. It is vital that residents and businesses upstream of the site act responsibly to ensure that no run-off that may harm these vulnerable species enters these waters. From limestone dust to domestic cleaning products, all pollutants can have a harmful effect on our special wildlife.

Conservation and Restoration Work

Work has been carried out over the last two years through the Peak District Vision for Wildlife Project to enhance the wetland area and so secure a better future for wildlife here.

Two ponds have been restored and one created to expand the habitat suitable for many animals. In 2005, ten uncommon dragonfly species were recorded using these ponds. Water voles were already visiting the new pond. It is hoped that the great crested newt will return from nearby locations and once again breed here. This species is declining through out Europe and is now internationally protected.

Fencing has been put up along stretches of the river Derwent to stop bank side erosion and loss of water vole nesting sites. Cattle grazing regimes aim to curb poaching. Fencing at Stoke Brook is to minimise disturbance to the spawning grounds of the brook lamprey.

Community groups and local rangers have been pulling up Himalayan balsam from the riverside and wet woodland. This non-native plant spreads quickly and out-competes many native species. Students from Lady Manners ‘Green Group’ are helping to monitor and protect the rare yellow loosestrife here.

The survival of Calver Marshes is ultimately dependent on Calver Weir. Already damaged, if the weir were to completely collapse the wetlands would drain and eventually dry out. The loss of wildlife would be devastating. Calver Weir Restoration Fund was set up by a group of concerned locals to raise funds for the full repair of the weir.

For more information on how special this site is contact our website on www.calverweir.org.ukFor more information on the Vision Project contact Rebekah Newman or Louise Valantine on 01629 816397