Hi Chris, Springs Reservoir can be good as you say for waders, but it is also a good winter site for Goosanders. This year was particularly good in March, with my highest count being 21, after regular double figure sightings. I also had 19 Curlews on the banking between Springs and Dingle in early March. As you say it can be good for passing birds, and it is another underwatched site on our local patch.
Sorry I appologise. You are right Simon it is called springs not stocks just looked it up on my map. Still sad to see the development and Mike I agree with you. This is a tiny development think of the massive scale ones that are constantly going on.
Been to stocks loads of times trout fishing I love the place. In terms of destroying that piece of habitat there are rules on biodiversity that councils and especially United Utilities (UU) must follow. If the work is essential and there are no alternatives then there is the option of mitigation or compensation. Therefore UU should create an alternative habitat. It might be worth a letter or two to UU. Maybe give the fishing lodge a call they might be able to help you with a bit of background or contacts before you negotiate the UU structure. Just google stocks trout fishing to get the number of the fishing lodge.
Sadly Chris it's just typical of the world we live in, humans and human activity ever increasing, and little by little, wildlife in retreat to accommodate our whims and fancies...
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Challenges are inevitable, but failure is optional.
Today after my walk on Horwich Moors I drove over to Stocks reservoir off Belmont Road Bolton. Over the last few years I have visited this site quite a few times. This reservoir has mainly stone banking around the sides. However, one small area is like a mini mud flat. Over time I have seen Sanderling, Common Sandpiper, Oystercatchers, Meadow Pipits, Grey Heron, Little Ringed Plover all working away on this area. There is never much on the reservoir itself but I have enjoyed seeing what may be on this little section every time I go. Imagine my disappointment today when I got there and this section has been bulldozed over, a gravel road way been put in place and what looks like a new overflow section being put in. I know In the grand scheme of things this little patch wont be any significant loss but I always enjoyed checking this spot out. Very Disappointed!!!
Chris
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Friday 24th of August 2012 10:54:20 PM
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Wednesday 29th of August 2012 08:04:21 AM
