Feedback from the many visitors to the park tells us that for the majority of people a highlight of the park is the water features. The two lakes are of course home to a range of wildfowl and a number of bird species. But how many realise what it takes to keep our lakes safe, healthy and in all round good condition?
The park ranger, Tom, works alongside the team from Idverde to cover any general maintenance issues with plants, shrubs or trees. However, key to the wellbeing of the lakes is the work of the anglers. Early morning visitors will be aware that they are on the lake regularly and organise matches on a weekly basis during the spring and summer.
Their contribution is far more than this.
They regularly clear surface debris such as leaves and litter from the lake. The leaves can cut out light and oxygen from the water and affect the fish life. As they de-compose they can form damaging algae.
The anglers also take forays across to the island in their boat when appropriate to clear any broken branches or other waste material. They work closely with the Environment Agency to regularly monitor the quality of the water, in particular the levels of oxygen. In times of low rainfall and high heat evaporation can cause levels to fall dangerously low and threaten the fish life.
The anglers have a self-organised emergency system for increasing oxygen levels in times of risk to the fish. They recently purchased and released 9000 young fish into the lake. They report that the local heron and the greedy cormorants are all enjoying full dine-in menus!
Keep up with all the work and activities of the anglers on our website. We thank you all!
