Nature Strategy
This Nature Strategy has been prepared by Witham and Humber Drainage Boards in accordance with the commitment in the Implementation Plan of the Defra Internal Drainage Board Review of 2007 for Internal Drainage Boards (IDBs) to produce their own strategy documents. It demonstrates the 4 Boards’ commitment to fulfilling their duty as public bodies to conserve and enhance biodiversity under various legislation and policy including, but not limited to, the Environment Bill (Act) 2020, the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, the 25 Year Environment Plan and the Water Framework Directive.
Importantly, it reflects the 4 Boards’ aspiration to maximise the support provided to biodiversity, particularly priority UK species and habitats, and the wider environment in general through day-to-day activities, by setting clear objectives, actions and targets.
The 4 Boards have adopted this Nature Strategy as one of their policies and are committed to its implementation. The Boards will review the plan periodically, with a review period no greater than 3 years, and update it as appropriate.
November 2021
This Nature Strategy is a public statement by the 4 Boards of their biodiversity objectives and the methods by which they intend to achieve them.
We would welcome appropriate involvement in the delivery of the Strategy from interested organisations, companies, and individuals.
You can contact us about this Nature Strategy by writing to the following address:
Witham & Humber Drainage Boards
Witham House
Meadow Lane
North Hykeham
Lincoln
LN6 9GJ
Or via email:
enquiries@witham3idb.gov.uk
The full document can be download https://witham3idb.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Nature-Strategy.pdf
Copy and paste this link into your browser: https://witham3idb.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Nature-Strategy.pdf
Invasive, Non-Native Species
The current status of individual invasive species in Lincolnshire is not well understood, as species are generally only recorded on a site specific basis. As a part of our environmental obligations, we record the presence of invasive species within our drains, and report this annually to the GLNP in an effort to improve understanding.
Invasive species which have the potential to cause problems within our internal drainage district include Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam. The main issue with these species from an operational perspective is the disruption to routine maintenance in terms of restriction of access to banks.
From a conservation perspective, invasive species can cause a reduction in diversity and habitat quality, as they often out-compete native flora. Japanese Knotweed in particular spreads very easily-particularly in riparian areas where high water flows can disperse fragments of the plant downstream, where new colonies can form.
It is therefore very difficult and expensive to control and eradicate. Further problems occur during the winter months when the species isn’t present, as it leaves areas of exposed ground, therefore increasing the risk of erosion.
