Wildlife Circus

                                                       Nitrate top score   Last weekend was the annual Waterblitz co-ordinated by the Earthwatch Institute's Freshwater watch. Volunteers head out with testing kits over the same long weekend so that all the data points are comparable to the next.The data goes to a central database so that researchers can identify areas for further investigation. Nitrates and Phosphates are tested at 5 sample sites and I usually choose the same ones. The confluence of the Bonesgate and the Hogsmill has had phosphate levels and the two sites below the Hogsmill Sewage works always has high nitrate readings.     Sample site three is just above  confluence of the Tolwort...

According to Blogger statistics, one of the most-read posts of 2016 to date has been The Hogsmill Sewage Spill (8.2.16). It therefore seems appropriate to provide an update here, rather than respond individually to the many enquiries received. This also serves as a useful way of maintaining a chronological record of events, while keeping ward councillors informed, particularly as they are already dealing with other sewage-related issues, such as persistent odour problems.   The previous post detailed the amount of 'rag' that appears downstream of the outfall on an almost weekly basis. During the flood of 25 June 2016, however, a substantial quantity of this material—including nappy liners, sanitary towels, condoms and their wrappers, cotton buds and, despite assurances that it does not survive passage through the Hogsmill Storm Relief (HSR) outfall, toilet paper—was deposited across the adjacent Public Open Space (POS).   Rag at the outfall So, here's what happened on...

Lapwings face into the wind        There were 38 lapwings loafing at the Filter Beds today, so their winter numbers are building up. If you cannot find them here, they will be foraging amongst the paddocks in Home Park. Many more come into roost at night, but its doubtful we'll see the numbers of five years ago, as this bird is becoming increasingly rare. Lapwing showing topknot I used to lay in bed and hear the birds calling through the night, as small numbers used to breed at the nearby sewage works and California Road Depot. Now these sites have been developed, Surbiton F.B.'s  is the last remaining area in the borough where there is any refuge for these winter flocks. How many birds can you see? The recent rain is beginning to make a difference to the water levels in the Filter Beds. It is a year since they were first drained although the basins still held water until October, 2011, when machinery was used to remove the substrates...