New Life for old Mill Stream

There could be new life for a disused mill stream in Dorchester, with the help of conservation and community groups. Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Dorchester Mill Stream Enhancement Scheme plans to breathe new life into this man-made tributary of the River Frome, which has the potential to be a good chalk stream site for wildlife.

A recent investigation by the Environment Agency for the River Basin Management Plan showed that, although the stream has good chemical water quality, it is poor for wildlife and physical characteristics, as a result of its former use to provide water for milling.

What is being done to help the wildlife?

Sarah Williams, Conservation Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “The hydromorphological quality, or physical functioning of the stream, is stopping it from being a wonderful stretch of chalk river, an important and rare habitat. The over-wide channel and straight, hard sides do not provide the habitat needed by fish and invertebrates or sufficient vegetation for water voles and birds. Our plans will soften the shape of the stream and provide bankside vegetation to allow the excellent chemical water quality to fulfil its potential as a haven for river wildlife.”

The proposed work will include low level shelves (or berms) to narrow wide sections and provide habitat for fish, birds, water voles and invertebrates. The berms will be made on site using local brashwood faggots and planted with native species.

When will the work be starting?

Sarah added: “The planting will improve the banks for nesting birds and mammals, including water voles which are known to be nearby but absent from this stream. Assessments have shown there will be no increase in flood risk and there will actually be a reduction in the risk to residents of Swanbridge Park. We hope to start work next summer, and would love to hear from volunteers who can join us to help plant up the river bank.”

Planning permission has been applied for, with a decision expected in late September. The Dorchester Mill Stream Enhancement Scheme is supported by the Environment Agency, Dorchester Town Council, Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee, Dorchester Civic Society, Dorchester Chamber of Commerce, Dorchester Fishing Club and the Friends of Riverside Reserve. The plans (1/D/2010/001244) are available at West Dorset District Council or at www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk or contact Sarah Williams at Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01305 264620.

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Notes to Editor

For more information please contact Sarah Williams at Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01305 264620.
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About Dorset Wildlife Trust www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust was founded in 1961 to protect the wildlife and natural habitats of the county and now has over 25,000 members and manages over 40 nature reserves. Most are open daily and there are visitor centres providing a wealth of wildlife information at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows, Kingcombe Meadows and Brownsea Island Nature Reserves, The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and the Urban Wildlife Centre at Upton Heath Nature Reserve.

The largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in Dorset, DWT plays a key role in dealing with local environmental issues. It leads the way in establishing the practices of sustainable development and engaging new audiences in conservation, particularly in the urban areas.