Exploring the Fens: Results from our ecological survey

The latest ecological survey for the New Life on the Old West (NLOW) project offers a fascinating glimpse into the health of the Fenland landscape. Conducted in June 2025, the study examined 43 ponds and drainage ditches across the project area between the Ouse Washes and Wicken Fen, using wetland plants and aquatic beetles as indicators of ecological quality.

Despite challenging drought conditions, surveyors Jonathan Graham and Martin Hammond recorded an impressive 79 species of aquatic beetle and over 180 plant species. Several rare or threatened beetles were found, including Agabus undulatus and Laccornis oblongus, both Near Threatened in Great Britain.

The report highlights the success of recent habitat enhancement works — particularly the creation of berms and new clean-water ponds — which have boosted biodiversity and provided valuable refuges for species associated with historic fen habitats. Sites such as Queenholme Drain and Smithey Fen Engine Drain now rank among the most ecologically rich in the wider Fenland area.

The findings reinforce how well-designed habitat projects can help restore and reconnect wildlife across intensively farmed landscapes.

Download the full report: New Life on the Old West: Survey of Vegetation and Aquatic Coleoptera (2025)