Portsmouth Water helps biodiversity in South Downs

Portsmouth Water is supporting nature initiatives in the National Park, including creating new ponds for insects, birds and amphibians.

The Havant-based water company is helping with the restoration of six ponds in the National Park via its biodiversity grants.

Ecological surveys to improve waterways are also being funded, including work on the River Lavant and River Ems near Chichester.

Meanwhile, grants are supporting the removal and management of invasive non-native species, including Himalayan balsam, Japanese knotweed and mink.

Water troughs for livestock are being introduced at multiple RSPB sites to reintroduce conservation grazing.

While not in the National Park, enhancements at Farlington Marshes will help improve habitats so wildlife such as nesting birds can move across the landscape more easily.

Bob Taylor, Chief Executive Officer for Portsmouth Water, said: “Improvements to chalk grassland, pond restoration and new hedgerow planting are just a few examples of the projects we’ve been fortunate to contribute to through our Biodiversity Grant Scheme.

“Many of our sites are home to diverse and sensitive habitats, and we have a responsibility to help safeguard them.

“Biodiversity relies on connectivity, so we’re committed to supporting local groups whose projects enhance habitats around our land and strengthen that natural network.”

Jan Knowlson, the National Park’s Biodiversity Officer, said: “None of this inspiring work to restore dew ponds would be possible without donations from businesses and organisations such as Portsmouth Water, so I’d like to say a big thank you.

“We think a century ago there may have been more than 1,000 ponds across the South Downs region, but this number has drastically reduced, so you can only imagine the impact this has had on wildlife.”