The ponds on the common form an incredibly important contribution to the diversity of wildlife on the common. The pond complex is made up of over 70 permanent and seasonal ponds and pools, from large 'lake size' to small vehicle ruts and shallow scrapes. The pond wildlife includes the great crested newt (a Biodiversity Action Plan species) and the recently introduced startfruit, as well as supporting 21 dragonfly and damselfly species.
As part of West Berkshire Council's Higher Level Stewardship, a Pond Management Plan will be produced to cover the following main elements.
- Objective 1: Map the permanent and seasonal ponds on the common
- Objective 2: Identify the ecological value of each pond
- Objective 3: Identify any historical value of the ponds
- Objective 4: Provide a clear outline of specific management objectives and outline how these can be achieved.
The details of this plan will be included here on its completion, which is expected to be during 2012.