Reservoirs

Winterburn reservoir There are a number of large water storage reservoirs in the Yorkshire Dales. These are generally of little biodiversity interest. One exception is Grimwith Reservoir that holds nationally important populations of wigeon and ringed plover. Upland reservoirs are therefore of medium biodiversity value.

Habitat Statement

Conservation objectives

To maintain and improve the biodiversity status of reservoirs, through the use of integrated management plans and the sensitive management of adjacent land.
To ensure that populations of breeding wigeon and ringed plover are maintained.
Presume against the creation of further reservoirs and impoundment of water courses within the National Park area.

Conservation measures

Develop catchment-wide abstraction and management plans that maintain appropriate water levels.
Ensure that agri-environment schemes are targeted at encouraging the appropriate sustainable management of land adjacent to reservoirs within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Work with Yorkshire Water and recreational users of Grimwith Reservoir to ensure that populations of wigeon and ringed plover are maintained.