Geckoella have been working with Clinton Devon Estates on an exciting nature recovery scheme on the lower River Otter catchment in East Devon, which is part of Defra’s Landscape Recovery Programme.
Ecologist and MoRPh* specialist Vanessa Lloyd has been leading the survey work on this important project assessing the condition of the river. This Autumn saw a series of surveys being carried out to assist in the decision making of the Heaths to Sea Landscape Recovery initiative. In a recent survey (pictured here) signs were very apparent of recent beaver activity. This mammal’s presence in the area is the result of a recent wild reintroduction of the endemic species that are beneficial to Biodiversity Net Gain and can lead to flood alleviation. The original origin of the beavers is unknown but following the River Otter Beaver Trial 2015-2020 and local consultation, it was agreed that the UK Government would not have them removed.
*MoRPh is a river habitat survey technique which records both the physical habitat and hydromorphological functions within the river or stream. The MoRPh technique includes many components of the Environment Agency’s River Habitat Survey (RHS, 2003) and so provides compatible information.
The MoRPh survey technique uses over 30 indicators recorded during a field survey to record the physical structure of a river channel and its margins.
Vanessa Lloyd carrying out MoRPh Survey
Dam structure in the River Otter
Evidence of Beaver Activity
East Devon National Landscape
