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Table
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Why an Action
Plan?
Selsey Biodiversity
Partnership
Aims
Scope of Plans
Coastal Vegetated
Shingle
Hedgerows
Reed Beds and
Saline Lagoons
Trees,Woodland
and Scrub
Road Verges
Grassland
Rifes and Ditches
Urban Area
Ponds
Awareness and
Involvement
Future
Developments
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SELSEY ACTION FOR WILDLIFE


A Local Biodiversity Action Plan
For Selsey Parish

tel.01243 607104



Rifes and Ditches.


Current Status and Distribution
There is an extensive network of rifes and ditches, mainly for drainage purposes. These have not been surveyed in detail for their overall wildlife value.
Importance
Ditches and rifes have the potential to support a wide range of plant, bird and invertebrate species. They can also support a number of fish species including eels, important prey for grey heron. Stickleback are important for kingfishers and grass snakes. Ditches can be important spawning areas for fish as they provide still water so eggs and fry don't get washed away [Sussex Floodplain Grassland HAP p.5]. Most importantly this habitat provides a potential local stronghold for the endangered water vole.
Local Significance
A recent survey has identified that this habitat supports water voles. So there is the opportunity to highlight the value of action for biodiversity in relation to this fondly regarded creature.
Threats
· Pollution by agricultural run-off
· Over management of vegetation growing on banks and alongside banks
· Lack of buffer strips/grass margins
· Silting up
· Over deepening or dredging
· Fluctuating water levels and drying out

Objectives
1. Monitor water vole distribution and populations.
2. Support the enhancement of ditches and rifes.
3. Assist in monitoring the effects of enhancement work.

ACTIONS


Action proposed in Sussex Floodplain Grassland HAP Action proposed in Selsey Parish
Monitor any enhancement or re-creation projects to assess their success. Support Home Farm management plan [FWAG] by raising the awareness of the work being done on the farm in respect of these habitats.

Monitor water vole distribution and populations as part of the project co-ordinated by Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve and Rob Strachan [Oxford University].

Monitor the effects of rife and ditch enhancement projects.


For any opinions or feedback or any
other information please contact
telephone 01243 607104
or email ssavill@lineone.net

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© Selsey Parish Map Group June 2002