Wetlands
Many of the Trust’s reserves can be considered wet but specific wetland management includes pond creation, ditch clearance and reed cutting.
New ponds are created in preference to clearing existing ones, creating a varied mix of open water and ponds that are vegetating over. Ditches are cleared where necessary to maintain water levels and prevent flooding and this work is carried out with a minimum of disturbance to wildlife. Winter and summer reed cutting also takes place.
Although reedbed is a relatively rare habitat in Cornwall, reeds are cut in some places to prevent them from spreading. Cutting also creates variety within the reedbed in terms of structure and opportunities for other plant species.
