Fen Management Handbook - Scottish Natural Heritage

7.1 A framework to assist decision making in fen water management
Decide on the target type(s) of fen,
and where this/these should be on
the site
Define the water sources for the
various fen types throughout the year,
and sensitivity to these water sources
Determine whether/how fen hydrology
has changed
Work out why fen hydrology has
changed
Consider what can be done to
positively influence negative changes
Produce an action plan and implement
Monitor future changes
(see Section 10)
What are the objectives for the site?
Topogenous and soligenous –
Existing and potential Variability
Long-term sustainability
Are these adequate to support target fen type(s)?
Is the site drier or wetter?
How, where, when, for how long?
Has groundwater discharge/spring changed in
flow/location?
Land drainage or abstraction in the catchment?
Surface water level
Groundwater level
Increase/decrease water level e.g.
sluices, bunds excavate accumulated silt
Lowering land levels or raising water levels can have significant implications for
wildlife and archaeology. Take particular care to consider the impacts on protected
species which use the site, such as otter, water vole, great crested newt, certain
freshwater mussels or snails, and on irreplaceable archaeological remains.
Trapping and translocation of wildlife, abstraction and impoundment of
water, or building structures in or adjacent to watercourses to control
water levels, are all controlled by legislation. If fish are present it will
be necessary to obtain a licence to move them before any de-silting
operations. If electrofishing equipment is going to be used an exemption
will be required under The Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries Act (1975).
Appendix V provides a more complete summary of the permits, consents
and licences which might be required. Early consultation with relevant
EA, SEPA or NIEA staff is recommended.
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