Hydro-ecology

Hydro-ecology is used to determine the conditions before, during and after commercial or industrial development and allows the avoidance or reduction of adverse effects on wetland habitats.

Commercial and industrial developments of all kinds can adversely affect the hydro-ecology of wetlands. Not only do we have the effects common to housing, mineral and landfill projects, but we may also have the effects of pollution.

Use of heavy vehicles can lead to accumulation of exhaust substances (including heavy metals from catalytic converters) and silts (off tyres) on road surfaces and which then get washed into watercourses.

Industrial processes can lead to the escape of oils, solvents, heavy metals and other noxious substances into the ground, from where it is very difficult to clean up, and then into drains.

The effects of these substances may remain hidden for many years until they arise in streams, and at springs and seepages, from where it may be impossible to ameliorate any adverse effects.

FACT: A key test of a sustainable development is the extent to which biodiversity remains uncompromised by development.

WHICH MEANS THAT: An environmentally sustainable development should not adversely affect the wildlife habitats with which it is directly or indirectly associated and wherever possible should enhance those habitats.

WATER AND WETLANDS are under threat from development, abstraction and non-point source pollution and they are priority habitats in Biodiversity Action Plans.