Frome & Piddle

E n v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y Frome & Piddle Catchment Management Plan

First Annual Review February 1997

BLANDFORD FORUM m

\ ( # POOLE dorchesterW _ _ ^ ~ V CONTENTS VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT...... 2 1. INTRODUCTION...... 3 1.1 The Environment Agency...... 3 1.2 The Environment Agency and Catchment Management Planning...... 3 2. PURPOSE OF THE ANNUAL REVIEW...... 4 3. OVERVIEW OF THE CATCHMENT...... 4 4. SUMMARY OF PROGRESS...... 4 4.1 Water Resources...... 4 4.2 Flood Defence...... 4 4.3 Conservation...... 5 4.4 Fisheries...... 5 4.5 Water Quality...... 5 5. ACTION PLAN MONITORING REPORT...... 7 6. APPENDICES...... :...... 14 6.1 Integrated Pollution Control...... 14 6.2 Air Quality...... ;...... 14 . 6.3 Radioactive Substances...... 15 6.4 Waste Management...... !...... 15 6.5 River Quality Objectives ...... 16 6.6 Glossary of Terms...... 17 6.7 Units...... 1 7 6.8 References...... 1 7

Environment Agency Information Centre i I _ _ _J rr _ _

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

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The Environment Agency South West Region 1 The Frome & Piddle CMP first Annua! Review 1997 MAP 1: Frome & Piddle Catchment

VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT The rivers also allow us to disperse treated The Frome & Piddle is a rural catchment of sewage effluents and we must ensure that high amenity and ecological value. The upper using the cleansing capacity of the Frome and part of the catchment lies within the Dorset Piddle to purify effluents does not damage Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is their considerable ecological, amenity and characterised by steep-sided valleys. The rivers fishery potential. change in character as they flow through In our management of flood defences and lowland towards Poole Harbour where they land drainage, we will seek to balance the drain into the English Channel. These rivers needs of the environment by: make an important contribution to the rural • protecting people and property from flooding economy through tourism, agriculture and recreation. • developing o strategy for agreed floodplain land use management, recognising the need to The high quality water in the aquifer provides conserve and enhance the wetland wildlife a source both for public water supply and for interest of the cotchment the rivers which support high quality salmonid The realisation of this vision will involve the fisheries. The protection of public health and commitment of all who have an interest in the the natural water environment therefore de­ water environment, and we recognise the mands that our management of the catch­ importance of establishing links with local ment will ensure that: communities and their representatives. It is important that local planning authorities • the quality of water in aquifers is not compromised include policies in their local plans which protect and enhance the water environment. • abstractions of water are in balance with the ecological needs at rivers and where flows are We have a commitment to work with all rele­ not environmentally acceptable then, where vant parties to implement the principles of justifiable, sustainable solutions must be sustainable development. sought

The Frome Si Piddle CMP First Annual Review 199? The Environment Agency South West Region 1. INTRODUCTION Our Aims are : This is the First Annual Review of the Frome & • to achieve significant and continuous Piddle Action Plan which was published in improvement in the quality of oir, land and February 1996. It introduces the Environment water, actively encouraging the conservation Agency, summarises progress made with Ac­ of natural resources, flora and fauna tions and introduces several new Actions. • to maximise the benefits of integrated Previous publications relating to this catch­ pollution control and integrated river basin management ment contain more background detail, and this Review should be read in conjunction with • to provide effective defence and timely warning systems for people and property against these publications: flooding from rivers and the sea Frome fir Piddle Catchment Management Plan • to achieve significant reductions in waste Consultation Report - March 1995 through minimisation, re-use and recycling • Frome fir Piddle Catchment Management Plon and ta improve standards of disposol Action Pfan - February 1996 • to manage water resources to achieve the Related information about the lower catch­ proper bafance between the needs of the environment and those of abs and ment may also be found in the: tractors other water users • Poaie Harbour fiir Purbeck Catchment • to secure, with others, the remediation of Management Plan Consultation Report - contaminated fand November 7 995 • to improve and develop salmon and freshwater • Poale Harbour fir Purbeck Catchment fisheries Management Plan Action Plan - March 1996 • to conserve and enhance inland and coastal 1.1 The Environment Agency waters and their use for recreation The Environment Agency was formed on 1 • to maintain and improve non-marine April 1996 by bringing together Her Majesty's navigation Inspectorate of Pollution (HMIP), the National • to develop a better informed public through Rivers Authority (NRA), the Waste Regulation open debate, the provision of soundly based Authorities (WRAs) and some units of the information and rigorous research Department of the Environment (DoE) dealing • to set priorities and propose solutions thot do with the technical aspects of waste and con­ not impose excessive costs on society taminated land. We do not cover all aspects of environmental legislation and service to the general public. We provide a comprehensive approach to the Your local authority deals with all noise prob­ protection of the environment by combining lems; litter; air pollution arising from vehicles, the regulation of air, land and water into a household areas, small businesses and small single organisation. We cannot work in isola­ industries; planning permission (they will tion, but seek to educate and influence indi­ contact us when necessary); contaminated viduals, groups and industries to promote best land issues (in liaison with ourselves); and environmental practice, and develop a wider environmental health issues. public awareness of environmental issues. Our Vision is : 1.2 The Environment Agency and Catchment Management Planning • a better environment in Engfand and Wafes far present and future generations Catchment Management Plans (CMPs) pro­ duced by the NRA will continue to be called We will : CMPs, and subsequent reviews will focus • protect and improve the environment as a mainly on water related issues. This will be the whole by effective regulation, by our own case with this First Annual Review of the Frome actions and by working with and influencing others & Piddle CMP. Issues relating to Integrated Pollution Control (IPC), Radioactive Sub­ • operate openly and consult widely stances (RAS), waste management and air vofue our employees quality will only be incorporated if necessary. • be efficient and businesslike in everything we Appendices 6.1 - 6.4 give a brief overview of do our responsibilities in these areas.

The Environment Agency South West Region 3 The Frome 6c Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 The Environment Agency has now taken over 4. SUMMARY OF PROGRESS any actions previously attributed to the NRA. 4.1 Water Resources New plans published after 1 April 1996 will be known as Local Environment Agency Plans 4.1.1 Progress with River Piddle Low Flow Study (LEAPs) and these will take account of all our responsibilities. All CMPs will be replaced by Considerable progress has been made since LEAPs by December 1999. the Action Plan was published. The investiga­ tions into the impacts of abstraction from the 2. PURPOSE OF THE ANNUAL REVIEW three boreholes (Alton Pancras, Briantspuddle and Dewlish) in the Piddle catchment con­ An important part of the CMP process is to cluded that these were resulting in an unac­ monitor the Action Plan to ensure that targets ceptable loss of flow to the river (Action 6.6). and Actions are achieved and that the Plan The investigations also showed that this re­ continues to address relevant and significant duction in flow, particularly at times of low issues within the catchment. This report sum­ river flow, was having a detrimental effect on marises the progress made since the publica­ the ecology and fisheries of the river. To re­ tion of the Frome & Piddle CMP Action Plan in dress the balance, new acceptable target flow February 1996. regimes have been developed, and progress in 3. OVERVIEW OF THE CATCHMENT implementing these is now under way. The Frome rises on the North Dorset Downs Wessex Water Services (WWS) have agreed to near Evershot, and flows south to be joined reduce abstraction at Alton Pancras pumping near Cattistock by the Wraxall Brook, and at station from the current licensed maximum of Maiden Newton by the Hooke. Two small 4.5Mld to a new maximum of 1.5Mld during streams, the Sydling Water and the Cerne, also periods of low flow in the river to meet de­ join the Frome upstream of Dorchester. Below fined target flows. Up to 9Mld of the current Dorchester, the Win, South Winterbome and licensed abstraction quantity from Briants­ Tadnoll Brook enter from the south, while the puddle borehole will be used by WWS for Frome itself meanders in an easterly direction stream support rather than public water sup­ to Poole Harbour. ply. This will occur as flows in the river fall to defined trigger flows. An additional IMId will The Piddle rises at four major springs near be pumped into the Devil's Brook from the Alton Pancras, initially flowing south before Dewlish borehole to increase the flow in turning east at Puddletown towards Poole Dewlish Village. Harbour. The Devil's Brook and Cheselbourne flow from the north and join the Piddle east of 4.2 Flood Defence Puddletown- The Bere Stream flows south 4.2.1 Flood Warning through Milborne St. Andrew and Bere Regis to join the Piddle at Warren. Since 1 September 1996 we have taken over the lead role from the Police in passing flood In the upper reaches, the rivers are dependant warnings to people who are at risk, so that on springs and groundwater levels for their they can take action to protect themselves and flows. Many are winterbournes, where the their properties. Where there is a known risk stream ceases to flow during the summer, or that flooding could occur from the main rivers perched, where the flow goes underground or the sea, flood warnings will be issued for for part of its length. the area affected. The middle and lower reaches of both rivers A leaflet. Flood Warning for the West Dorset have a braided network of channels; some are Rivers ond Coast is now available from our flood relief channels and others natural, but offices. The stretches and locations of river or many are relics of historic water meadow coast for which flood warnings will be issued systems. Most of these systems are now aban­ are listed, along with the types of warnings doned, but their locations are easily seen; issued. some have been partially restored, on the Frome at Maiden Newton and on the Devil’s These warnings are issued to the Police, local Brook. authorities, and in places directly to those at

The frome ( t Piddle CMP first Annual Review 1997 4 The Environment Agency South West Region risk via a recorded telephone message. Flood The actions will be incorporated into LEAPs, warnings will also be broadcast by most local although, many will be covered by our stan­ radio stations, and information on the general dard duties. We will also be taking an active situation will be available on Teletext. Addi­ role in helping maintain and improve other tionally our Floodcall telephone service (0645 habitats and species for which we are not the 88 11 88) provides regularly updated infor­ contact point. mation on flood warnings in force across We are committed to maintaining and improv­ England and Wales. ing the biodiversity of the Frome & Piddle A record of current dissemination arrange­ Catchment, and will be working collabora- ments for the Frome & Piddle Catchment is fjvely with other involved groups, e.g. English now contained in the Dorset Flood Warning Nature, RSPB, Local Planning Authorities and Plans, a copy of which is held at our Area and the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Regional offices. 4.4 Fisheries Flood warning is not an exact science. We use The causes of the current low salmon catches the best information available to predict the in the Frome and Piddle and other chalk possibility of flooding, but no warning system streams are now being addressed by a project can cover every eventuality. It is the respon­ being carried out in part by the Institute of sibility of those who live in flood prone areas Freshwater Ecology at East Stoke (Action to be aware of any risk and to know what 16.6). Monitoring of the numbers of migrat­ action they should take to protect themselves ing fish in the Frome, both adults and smolt, is if flooding occurs. Warnings are issued for also taking place. flooding from most major rivers and the sea. There are other types of flooding for which a A Salmon Action Plan will be produced for the warning service cannot be provided, for ex­ Frome in 1997 (Action 16.7) and any byelaw ample road flooding caused by blocked drains changes that are determined to be necessary or groundwater. will be derived at that time. Over the next five years we will be improving Owners and fishery interests have become the warning service so that more information involved in gravel cleaning prior to spawning reaches those who need it. using equipment provided by the Agency (Action 16.5). We are also conducting an 4.3 Conservation investigation of the sources of silt on the Tad- 4.3.1 Biodiversity noll with a view to their control, and a further We are the contact point for six species (otter, report will be produced in 1997 (Action 24.3). water vole, white-clawed crayfish, southern We have also had significant impact in the damselfly, the pea mussel Pisidium tenuilinea- derivation of a proposed flow regime for the tum, and the depressed river musset Pseudano­ middle Piddle, and will be involved in its donta complanata), and one habitat (chalk evaluation. rivers) in our Area, which have been defined by the UK Biodiversity Steering Group. Action 4.5 Water Quality Plans will be produced for these species and We monitor 208.1km in the Frome & Piddle habitats, and we will be involved in drawing catchment. In 1995, over 97% of the moni­ up these Plans. tored length was of good or very good chemi­ cal quality, less than 2% fairty good, and less More research is required to determine which than 1% poor. In biological terms, 97% was of of these species are present within the Frome good or very good quality, and 3% fairly good. & Piddle Catchment, although some data Between 1990 and 1995, there was an overall have already been collected. Information on improvement in chemical quality in over 34% the current distribution of native crayfish has of the monitored river length, while biological been collated, and a leaflet is being produced water quality improved in nearly 45%. identifying their distribution and the best conservation practice (Action 22.8).

The Environment Agency South West Region 5 The frame <* Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 MAP 2 : Frome & Piddle Catchment - Compliance With Proposed River Quality Objectives (RE Classification) 1995

LEGEND o Settlements

Compliant Marginal Failure Significant Failure Unclassified Stretch / Stretch Boundary RE 1 = River Quality Objectives. All RQOs apply from 01/01/1995 unless dated

© Crown Copyright This Map Is Schematic Not Definitive Frome & Piddle CMP 1st Annual Review - Feb 1997 The Environment Agency South West Region 4.5.1 River Quality Objectives pollution during the construction and after During 1995-96, we reviewed the river quality completion. There is also potential to enhance objectives (RQOs) published in the Action the conservation interest of the area through Plan. Map 2 shows the proposed RQOs and the construction process. compliance with them. Where stretches are 5. ACTION PLAN MONITORING non-compliant we are currently assessing the REPORT reason and the action required to ensure compliance. The Action Plan is the means by which the vision of the catchment is turned into reality, 4.5.2 Tolpuddle/Puddletown Bypass and outlines detailed proposals for resolving Construction of the Tolpuddle/Puddletown the Issues identified. The following tables bypass has recently commenced, and the update the progress with each Issue identified route crosses important fisheries and a major in the Frome & Piddle CMP Action Plan for the aquifer close to water supply sources. The period February 1996 to January 1997. The work is programmed to continue until 1999. tables also report on several new Actions identified since publication of the Action Plan. We recognise the importance of working with the consortium building the road to prevent

Issues and Actions } By i Cost j95 |96| 97 198 | 991 Progress Year One 1. Trophic status of the Frome is uncertain 1.1 Collect and analyse chemical and biological Agency £5.3k •• • We have undertaken extensive data to investigate potential nomination of collection and analysis of chemical the Frome d/s Dorchester STW as a sensitive fir biological data (1994-96). The water under UWWTD. Successful designation Agency is considering putting would provide the legal requirement to install forward a case for designation of nutrient removal facilities at Dorchester STW the Frome as a Sensitive Area 1 (Eutrophication) to the OoE 1.2 Promote land use practices which reduce See 24.5 runoff of nutrients e.g. buffer zones j 2. Control of cress farm discharges 2.1 Issue discharge consents for all cress farm Agency £3k ♦ Action completed. No further discharges by March 1996 reporting in future plans required 2.2 Install settlement facilities where necessary Growers -¥ 2.3 loint R&D project to produce watercress Agency £24k ••• This project is due to report in strains with improved resistance to crook root Cress March 1997. We are hoping to fungus and water cress yellow spot virus in Growers start a new research project on order to reduce the need to treat with zinc Assoc. codes of good cress growing practice, methods of zinc applica­ tion, or possibly genetic engineer­ ing of cress, depending on the outcome of the existing project and the availability of fundinq 2.4 Monitor impact of discharges where there is Agency £25k •••« • Biological and chemical monitor­ use of off-label pesticides and zinc ing of the discharges is being undertaken 2.5 Review discharge consents if there is adverse Agency • Awaiting results of 2.4 impact from the use of off-label pesticides and zinc 2.6 NEW ACTION A review of all cress farms may Agency • We are currently holding meetings take place in the near future to take account Cress with the Cress Growers Assoc, to of spring flows and storage release in the . Growers come to an adequate resolution to maximum rate of discharge from cress farms Assoc ! the situation

The Environment Agency South West Region 7 The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annua! Review 1997 Issues and Actions______j By } Cost |95 | 96 | 97 j 98 j 99 | Progress Year One 3.____ Significant non-compliance with River Quality Objective targets Investigate cause of non-compliance on the Agency £25k ! followinq reaches: i 3.1 Frome d/s Golden Springs Fish Farm to Investigations were carried out but Mo reton, More ton to confluence with Tad- no specific cause was discovered; noll. These were marginal failures in 1993 and the stretch was compliant in 1995 significant failures in 1994 3.2 Hooke from Hooke to Higher Kingcombe, Investigations were carried out but Higher Kingcombe to Kingcombe. These were no specific cause was discovered; significant failures in 1993 and compliant in the stretch was compliant in 1994. Changes in sampling sites mean that 1995, but further investigations these stretches will be reassessed using 1995 will be carried out in 1997 data 3.3 Sydling d/s Huish Fish Farm to d/s Sydling T The Sydling reach was a signifi­ STW, Cerne u/s Nether Cerne Fish Farm to d/s cant failure in 1995, and the Nether Ceme Fish Farm. These sampling sites Cerne a marginal failure. The will be relocated to ensure that they are repre­ i sampling sites were not,relocated sentative during 1995, but new sites have 1 now been set up 4. Marginal non-compliance with River Quality Objective targets. The investigation af EC Directive failures and significant ______RQO failures ore afforded a higher priority than marginal fa ilu re s ______Investigate cause of non-compliance on the Agency £25k t following reaches: i ' | 4.1 Frome from Frampton to confluence with 1 These were marginal failures again Sydling, confluence with Sydling to u/s Dor­ (in 1995; investigations are con­ chester bifurcation, u/s Dorchester bifurcation tinuing but we have not yet to confluence with Cerne, u/s Dorchester bi­ iidentified a specific cause for the furcation to Poundbury. These were identified jfailure os compliont in 1993 and marginal failures in i 7994 1 4.2 Frome d/s Pallington to d/s Golden Springs [investigations were carried out but Fish Farm. This was identified as a marginal jno specific cause was discovered; failure in 1993, but o new site in 1994 showed jthe stretch was compliant in 1995 it to be compliant j 4.3 Tadnoll Rydose to Moigne Combe. This was !Marginal failure 1995. A consent identified as compliant in 1993 and a marginal jwas issued in March 1996, and foilure in 1994. The failure is caused by zinc {monitoring will continue which is thought to hove originated from the ! 1 cress beds; this will be consented by 1996 i 4.4 NEW ACTION Marginal failure in the Sydling • « | ;This reach was not classified from d/s Sydling STW to Lower Magiston [separately in 1994. We will inves- » r i : tig ate the causes S. Sewerage in the Piddle Valley and elsewhere S.1 Improve sewerage system in the Piddle valley WWS i jWWS have identified options and ! to reduce infiltration. These hove been given Agency {discussions are continuing to i high priority under AMP2 programme, but tap ■ j i determine priorities. No funding priority schemes are ta be completed first so ! 'has been identified at present i there is no agreed timescale, but the work is 1 i likely to go ahead 1

The frome 6 Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 8 The Environment Agency South West Region Issues and Actions ; ___ By i Cost ) 95 j 96197 V98 99 Progress Year One _6._ Public water supply abstraction on the Piddle 6.1 Publish a report on the identified impacts and Agency I £3k . i i iAction completed. No further preferred solutions for the upper and middle i i reporting in future plans required i i Piddle by 31 March 1996 A 6.2 Recommend flow for fisheries using the Agency £10k • /\ction completed in 1995. No PHABSIM methodology urther reporting in future plans lrequired 6.3 Negotiate temporary and permanent stream Agency ♦ • • {Permanent stream support ar­ augmentation at Oewlish and at Briantspud- WWS rangements agreed with WWS, dte from existing boreholes construction and draft operating rules to be completed by 1997. Discussions ongoing regarding joewtish site 6.4 Cooperate with WWS in trials for augmenta- i WWS • • • (Ongoing. Successful trials under­ tion of the upper Piddle as an immediate par­ Agency taken in Summer 1996, further tial mitigation measure trials programmed for summer 11997 6.S Negotiate the full terms of an unambiguous Agency • • Action completed. No further strategy for remedy of low flows to satisfy rea­ WWS \reporting in future plans required sonable needs 6.6 NEW ACTION Design and consUuct gauging Agency £70k •• {This is required to monitor the stations at Dewlish Village and Alton Pancras target flow regimes agreed with ]wws 6.7 NEW ACTION Collect appropriate data to Agency £3k • • A contract has been let for an enable an impact assessment of proposals for ecological survey of the river remedying low flows corridor & associated wetlands, and an historic desk study of wetland birds 6.8 NEW ACTION Collect information to establish Agency We have agreed to look at a site at j : * ; * i whether important h ab itat including wet­ EN Frome St Quinton in detail with land SSSIs, are at risk i Jill EN 7. Funding of low flow alleviation 7.1 Assess the costs and benefits of alleviating the Agency £90k «• Action completed. No further impacts of abstractions by 31 September reporting in future plans required 1996 7.2 Establish funding mechanisms for low flow Agency •• Ongoing remedies and timing of permanent schemes 8. Manage future development of water resources by implementing South Western Region Water Resources Devel­ opment Strategy (RWRDS) 8.1 Seek information to enable us to effectively Agency • •• Information collection and analysis review and update the RWRDS onqoing 8.2 Publish a revised RWRDS document by May Agency £20k ♦ • Ongoing but to a revised timeta­ 1998 i ble of 1999 in conformity with ! i WWS business plans 8.3 Implement local licensing policy. This was 6.3 Agency This work is now regarded as a in the Consultation Report routine commitment. No further 1 reporting in future plans required 9. Impact of diurnal flow fluctuations on the Hooke 9.1 Investigate cause Agency £lk • • Investigations into the frequency of the fluctuations have com­ menced, Further investigations scheduled for January 9.2 Assess results and decide course of action Agency • Awaiting outcome of 9.1 10. Improved identification of flood risk areas 10.1 Cany out S I05 surveys in 1996-97. Further ! Agency £30k Ongoing. Meeting held with IPA detailed surveys are proposed for 1999-00 j LPAs £20k ’ ! ! officers. Forming plans for 1997- ...... 1 1 _ L _ i L J 00 J i ­ The management of assets and the future control of water levels __ l l .1 Survey of assets. This was completed in I99S j Agency I £40k {Operational procedures now J ____L {being compiled______12. Review the efficiency and effectiveness of Flood Defence maintenance operations 12.1 Apply Flood Defence Management System to Agency —► iHardware being purchased for catchment. National initiative; local costs are 1997 implementation not available 12.2 Revise Standards of Service methodology Agency £3k « •• • {Flood data now being collected

The Environment Agency South West Region 9 The Frame & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 Issues and Actions j By ) Cost } 95 j 96 j 97 ] 98 ! 99 i_ _ _ Progress Year One 13. Investigate, justify and, if appropriate, jmplement Flood Defence schemes 13.1 Liaise with planning authorities | Agency Liaison is carried out through the | LPAs ;Avon & Dorset Local Flood De­ * MAFF fence Committee. This work is now regarded as a routine com­ mitment. No further reporting in I future plans required 13.2 Maiden Newton Flood Alleviation Scheme: Aqency £185k j • j Delayed due to a reduction in Appraisal in 1996-97, construction in 1997- MAFF ‘MAFF funds. Construction now 98. Pre-feasibility study completed, and project due 1998-99 ______confirmed in Capital Programme______13.3 Investigate the justification for the proposed Agency Linked to Water Level Manage­ Swineham tidal flood embankments FAS. Post MAFF ment Plan. See Issue 26 2000. This scheme would cost £2S7K and is cur- rently low priority______13.4 Investigate the justification for the proposed Agency ; Linked to Water Level Manage- Arne tidal flood embankments FAS. Post 2000. MAFF Iment Plan. See Issue 26 This scheme would cost £161K and is currently low priority______- 14. Ensure the adequate provision of flood warning in the catchment. Part of a Regional project to improve flood warning.

14.1 Review flood risk areas in the catchment Aqency • • I Flood Warning Dissemination 14.2 Review existing provisions of flood warning Agency £5k • 1 Project implemented successfully with respect to Emergency Response Levels of 1 from 1 September 1996. Action Service completed. No further reporting in 14.3 Recommend improvements and produce a Agency • future plans required costed programme of future work

15.1 Agree operational and maintenance plan if £5k [ 7 T • jThe conservation strategy and the SSSI designation is extended beyond exist­ !consenting protocol must be ing sites on the Frome. We have signed a Iproduced in 1997 before notifica­ Memorandum of Understanding with EN regard­ tion of the river proceeds. Na­ ing the protection and management of rivers tional guidance is awaited notified as SSSIs which will result in on agreed conservation strategy and consenting protocol 16. Management of salmon stocks 16.1 Scoping study for a proposed National R&D Agency £25k • • • ■ Scoping study took place in 1996 Project to study the decline in salmon stocks ifollowed by Phase 2 research in and catches in chalk streams j 1996-97 16.2 National studies on the decline in large Agency j Further studies about to com- spring-running fish. Initial study on the genetic jmence aspects of spring-running fish has been com­ i pleted | 16.3 Review the revised.salmon angling byelaws Agency £0.5 k • ! I Will now take place as part of the - | i Salmon Action Plan in 1997 16.4 Use of PHABStM to determine flow require­ Agency £10k • \ Action completed. No further ments and demonstrate impact of low flows. \ reporting in future plans required Wort carried out at Briantspuddle 16.5 Restore and.protect spawning and nursery Agency £2.5k -> jIncreasing amount of gravel areas. When appropriate, gravel raking takes pa cleaning being carried out by place following river maintenance far flood de­ owners. See also 24.3 fence. Further work may be required if stocks do not recover 16.6 Monitor migrating smolts on the Frome. A Agency £33k • • • Ongoing - smolt run has been similar sum is being contributed ta this project IFE assessed in 1995 and 1996. by IFE Further funding has been pro­ J vided for IFE to continue this j. . project in 1997 16.7 Prepare a Salmon Action Plan for each river. Agency 1 * • | Frome SAP scheduled for 1997, Salman Action Plons will be prepared every 5 ; i S I ? i 1 Piddle SAP for 1998

16.8 Undertake genetic studies to characterise Agency : £2k Completed in 1995. No further Frome and Piddle salmon stocks______reporting in future plans required 16.9 Monitor juvenile salmonid stocks. Done |The Frome has been changed to annually 1988-95 jonce every 3 years due to cuts in [funding; the Piddle will continue !annually because of its ALF status

The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 10 "The Environment Agency South West Region Issues and Actions By j Cost j 95 196 j 97198199! Progress Year One 17. 17.1 Flow management policies should attempt lo { See 6.2 j SFlow management should com- TT~1 1 1 meet the proven requirements of wild trout j and 16.4 | r t ! jmence at Briantspuddle in 1997 populations i j i ! 1 !(see 6.3) t 17.2 Promote local brown trout habitat improve- i GCT —►! i Being promoted and evaluated by ment. Use of measures like fencing to keep cat­ WWS I CCT tle out, and small in-channel structures such os Owners ♦ 1 i i groynes and weirs i 17.3 Restore and protect spawning and nursery See 16.5 I No work on Piddle since 1993. areas. Extensive gravel cleaning was carried out ! Some raking done on Frome as on the Piddle in 1993 1 part of FD maintenance. Some ! 1 done by owners using Agency i equipment 17.4 Control the restocking of brown trout through Owners -> i Ongoing i Section 30 Consents. We will support the use of Agency ) marked fish and selective cropping, or better still ! sterile triploid stock, to reduce the risk of genetic | dilution 17.5 Catch and return is being encouraged by Owners —► (Ongoing Frome, Piddle and West Dorset Fisheries As­ 1 sociation i 17.6 Assess benefit of pike removal on brown trout CCT —► Being promoted and evaluated by populations WWS CCT 17.7 Investigate the impact of cormorants and Agency £1M •• • other fish-eating birds. This is port of a Na­ DoE tional R&D Project looking at the impoct and MAFF control of fish-eating birds 17.8 The Agency will support licensed killing only Owners —► when serious damage to fisheries by cormo­ Agency rants has been established and alternative non-destructive methods of preventing dam­ ! age have been tried i 17.9 Carry out strategic stock surveys. This is a Agency £12k I • Next survey 1999 regular 5 yearly survey i 18. Management of coarse fish stocks 18.1 We propose no direct action on this issue at See 15.1 i j E | i present. Action to raise water levels ar introduce r | more sympathetic weedcutting is likely to help s i 1 coarse fish. Their requirements will be considered 1 when a conservation strategy is developed for i j 1 the proposed SSSI _.L _ ) 1. -L ...... 19. Assess the scope for improved public access to rivers and associated land for informal recreation 19.1 Examine scope for improved access, particu­ Agency £5k • There has been no progress on larly for disabled and educational use. Subject Owners this Action to funding LPAs 19.2 Investigate the potential for collaborative Agency £10k • • Improvements to the footpath at projects to improve footpaths, including those Local 7 South Quay are being developed at South Quay Wareham and North Walls, authorities alongside proposed dredging, Wareham. Owners together with the District, County and Town Councils. WorV will be ! completed during February 1997 19.3 Restoration of water meadows at Maiden See 26.3 * 1 i ; Newton i 1 t ! 20. The impact of recreational boat use on the tidal Frome 20.1 We will continue to monitor water quality in Agency —► This work is now regarded as a the tidal waters and investigate any pollution routine commitment. No further problems reporting in future plans required 20.2 We witl continue to enforce the speed limits Agency —► This work is now regarded as a set to protect the tidal defences and other routine commitment. No further river interests reporting in future plans required

The Environment Agency South West Region 11 The Fromc & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 Issues and Actions | By | Cost \ 9S 196 \ 97198 [ 99 j Progress Year OnT 21. Improve the conservation status of the catchment 21.1 Encourage and cooperate with the setting of Agency £1.5k Support to Purbeck LBAP * a pilot i standards for wetland habitat and species EN ! project to set local targets for key conservation based on the recommendations habitats/species. Draft plans for of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and other southern damselfly & medicinal initiatives. Agency will be setting interim targets leech. Further work on reedbeds, once the UK Plan is published in December 1995 flood plain grassland & water voles 21.2 Agree objectives and sources of finance for Agency -> river corridor improvements in discussion with Others other bodies once targets are set This follows from 21.1 21.3 Jointly agree and produce a consenting See 15.1 protocol and conservation strategy for the Frome proposed SSSI 21.4 Develop River Habitat Survey to a stage where Agency « • The pilot data base is now held at it can guide our protection and rehabilitation IFE the Area office. Further develop- efforts. The National cost of this project is ment of RHS methodology at £22 AK. The Frome and Piddle are both pilot riv­ Regional level has not yet been ers decided 21.5 Survey aquatic plants around Dorchester STW See 1.1 Report completed (see Action under UWWTD. There is concern from EN 1.1). No further reporting in future about the impact of phosphates on the plant plans required community in the river 22. Conservation of important species 22.1 Investigate rare species in winterboumes, and Agency Ii i • 1 • j their vulnerability. Subject to fundinq 22.2 Investigate pesticide levels in eels, the major Agency £1.2k • Report due January 1997. No food source of otters further reporting in future plans required 22.3 Carry out bioassays and post mortems on Agency —► A corpse from the Frome was sent dead otters. Contact our Blandford office should for analysis in December 1996 o dead otter be found 22.4 Increase protection for native crayfish by Agency • 9 Action still needed, further survey pursuing a no-go area designation for the may be required Piddle catchment. The Piddle is probabfy the only river in South Wessex Area which still has a viable population of native white-clawed crayfish 22.5 We intend to introduce a Fisheries byelaw to Agency * Practice not occurring in this prevent the use of crayfish as live>batts in the catchment. No further reporting in Piddle future plans required 22.6 Collate information on the present distribu­ Agency £5k m • The Area input to this Action has tion of crayfish, and assess the need for future been completed. Survey will be , woric. This is a Regional desk study repeated in the future 22.7 Investigate the impact of fisheries improve­ GCT f ment work on native crayfish WWS i 22.8 NEW ACTION Produce regional leaflet on Agency £2k m |To show current distribution and crayfish |best practice for conservation of (native crayfish 23.__The protection of features of archaeologlcaUnterest 23.1 Screen Agency works and planning applica­ Agency -> (This work is now regarded as a tions for possible impact on known archaeo- routine commitment No further logical features i reporting in future plans required : • « XT 23.2 Investigate the possibility of a scoping project Agency rs Initial discussions have taken —

to identify opportunities for increasing our UJ •sJ place. Funding for a pilot project knowledge of archaeology within river valleys. on the Frome is being investigated Subject to funding; collaborative wort with local authorities is envisaged

The Pro me & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 12 The Environment Agency South West Region ______Issues and Actions______j By | Cost [95 j 96 j 97 j98~[ 99 i __Progress Year One 24. The increased silt load in the rivers 24.1 Piddle Valley Soil Erosion Project. To establish Agency £4k - .1 t >A consultant has identified poten­ the cause of soil erosion and produce a plan to Owners j tial problems on a number of reduce soil runoff i Tenants i (farms. We shall be meeting with t [up to 8 farmers and negotiating (with them for voluntary measures i (to minimise the effect of solid i i jrunoff from locations identified i i 24.2 Proposed National R&D Project on decline of See 16.1 i salmon stocks in chalk streams. This will con­ i i sider the role of siltation in the control of salmon 1 populations | 1 24.3 Conduct a survey to investigate the origin and Agency £1k • I A low-flow survey was conducted quantities of silt inputs to the Tad noil. Annual n summer 1996 and reported. A surveys have identified a deterioration in salmon further high-flow visit will be spawning conditions made when conditions are appro­ priate 24.4 Where siltation causes a problem in terms of Agency The North Channel of the Frome channel capacity and hence water levels, we has been surveyed and dredging would carry out an appraisal for appropriate carried out where required works which could include dredging 24.5 Promote the establishment of buffer zones Agency £25k —> The National R&D project on Best and other best*management practices to re­ Owners Land Management Practices has duce silt and nutrient inputs. R&D projects are Tenants now finished and we are currently in hand that cover a range of land use issues. looking at ways to implement the Outcomes will include: best management prac­ findings. Action 24.1 has been tice advice, promoting awareness, and develop­ one local outcome. ing a strategy to influence land management i I 24.6 Monitor discharges at Bovington over winter Agency £5k • t The continuous monitoring 1995-96 to assess the effect of MoD im­ project was completed and failed provements. This will be the first winter since 1 to identify any excessive dis­ MoD have implemented new precautions on charges from the ranges. Routine Bovington tank ranges - reseeding, restricted ar­ sampling will continue. No further eas and all-weather surfaces reporting in future plans required 24.7 NEW ACTION We have developed techniques Agency for mapping soil erosion vulnerability on the upper Avon, and will apply them to produce a map for the upper Piddle as soon as resources permit 25. Review the objectives, efficiency and effectiveness of weedcutting operations 25.1 Review the Weedcutting Code of Practice and Agency £4k ♦ • The biennia! meeting wili take Policy (see also 15.1). Incorporated in SSSI con­ Owners place in'February 1997 sultations. Biennial meeting with fishery and forming representatives to review weedcutting strategy 25.2 Remove weed from moorings on the Frome Agency • [This work is now regarded as a when necessary and appropriate routine commitment. No further \reportinq in future plans required 26. The management of water levels In the catchment 26.1 Draw up a Water Level Management Plan for Agency £9k • ♦ • • IPublic consultation is currently the tidal waters EN jtaking place on a Draft Plan. IProgress has been made on the [full plan 26.2 Discuss a Water Level Management Plan for Agency • •• 9 Postponed until 1997-98 non-tidal waters with EN. In conjunction with EN the Memorandum of Understanding, see 15. J 26.3 A collaborative project has been proposed' Agency £12k • • The FAS has not identified any subject to funding, to assist with the restora­ DCC scope for work in the water tion of the water meadow system at Maiden meadows. We will part-fund an Newton. If the Maiden Newton FAS goes ahead invertebrate survey and fully fund there may be some benefit from proposed resto­ I a levels survey of the water ration of control structures i i meadow area

The Environment Agency South West Region U The Frome k Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 Issues and Actions By Cost 95196 97 98 199 I Progress Year One 27. Impact of development, including road schemes and minerals and waste developments 27.1 Incorporate flood protection measures in all Agency IThis work is now regarded as a new developments, as necessary DoT I ..J Routine commitment. No further 2 7.1 Incorporate pollution control measures in all IP As S' reporting in future plans required new developments, as necessary Developers! 27.3 Ensure the wildlife and landscape of river corridors are protected and enhanced in all _____ new developments, as necessary______27.4 Implement Agency Policy and Practice for the Agency Protection of Groundwater .i.L

effects on soils and water. Some pollutants, 6. APPENDICES such as acidic gases, can also cause serious 6.1 Integrated Pollution Control problems for those with asthma, bronchitis We are the statutory authority in England and and other respiratory diseases. Wales for regulating the largest and most Air pollution may be in the form of gas or complex industrial processes which discharge particulate matter with its dispersion and potentially harmful substances to air, water dilution depending on climatic conditions. Its and land. To do this we use a system known as impact may be local, especially with regard to Integrated Pollution Control (IPC). particulate matter which will often settle on Two lists of processes have been prescribed by nearby land or water, or may be global, for regulations made under the Environmental example, some refrigerant gases depleting the Protection Act (1990)(Part I): Part A processes upper ozone layer, or affecting concentrations are controlled under IPC by us, and operators of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. of these controlled processes are required to We will need to work closely with others if have an authorisation. Authorisations also improvements are to be achieved. This is cover plant design and operation. We are particularly important with regard to local air required to ensure that the best available tech­ quality where we are only one of a number of niques not entailing excessive cost (BATNEEC) regulatory bodies, with a role in helping to are used to prevent release of particular sub­ achieve the government's air quality strategy. stances into the environment or where not practicable to minimise their release and ren­ Our work also involves authorising and regu­ der them harmless. Where a process is likely to lating emissions to air from certain prescribed involve releases into more than one medium, processes (Part A processes) under Part I of the we ensure that the BATNEEC principle is used Environmental Protection Act (1990), and to ensure that the best practicable environ­ regulating landfill sites and in particular landfill mental option (BPEO) is adopted. Considera­ gas. This gas is principally a mixture of meth­ tion of BATNEEC and BPEO are, primarily, site ane and carbon dioxide. specific. Under Part 4 of the Environment Act 1995, the Part B processes are controlled at a local level Government is required to publish a national under a system of Local Authority Air Pollution strategy for air quality including : Control (LAAPC). • a framework of standards and objectives for the pollutants of most concern Under the Water Industry Act 1991, referrals of special category effluent for discharge to sewer • a timetable for achieving objectives from processes which are not subject to IPC • the steps the Government is taking and the are managed by us on behalf of the Secretary measures it expects others to take to see that objectives are met of State for the Environment. The strategy was published for consultation in 6.2 Air Quality the summer of 1996. We will work closely with Air quality is an indicator of environmental local authorities to help achieve the objectives quality; poor air quality can damage flora and of the National Air Quality Strategy. fauna and buildings, and have significant

The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 14 The Environment Agency South West Region In due course, air quality standards may be tion of controlled wastes and therefore under prescribed in regulations made by the Gov­ the scope of our control. ernment and obligations placed on local Sites are principally controlled by issuing waste authorities regarding the establishment and management licences. The licence contains operation of local air quality management conditions on the construction, maintenance areas. Local authorities will have to carry out and operation of sites, and stipulates monitor­ periodic reviews of air quality in their areas. ing requirements where we deem it necessary. Where standards are not being met or are not The environment is protected by appropriate likely to be met an air quality management conditions which are agreed internally and area should be declared, known as a Desig­ circulated to external bodies as a consultation nated Area, and an action plan produced to exercise prior to the issue of a licence. improve air quality. Certain activities are now afforded exemptions 6.3 Radioactive Substances from waste management licensing by the regulations. In general they are activities with We are the principal regulator in England and less potential for pollution, and certain waste Wales under the Radioactive Substances Act storage and recycling processes including the 1993. This statute is concerned with the stor­ spreading of certain wastes on agricultural age, use and disposal of radioactive sub­ land for benefit. Exemptions are only granted stances, and in particular, the regulation of if they will not give rise to the risk of pollution. radioactive waste. In the past waste management licences only We regulate the accumulation, keeping and related to the operational phases of any site use of radioactive materials, and the disposal and planning permission was the only means of radioactive material, including that from by which control could be exercised over licensed nuclear sites. Certificates of registration closed sites. The introduction of the Waste are issued for keeping and using radioactive Management Licensing Regulations (1994) materials and certificates of authorisation for under the Environmental Protection Act the accumulation and disposal of radioactive (1990) has changed this situation. Licences waste. can now control the monitoring and aftercare 6.4 Waste Management of closed sites. Licences cannot be surrendered It is our responsibility to enforce, the majority until we are satisfied that the site does not of UK waste legislation which governs the represent a risk to the environment. management of waste generated from house­ The aquatic environment may be affected by hold, commercial or industrial sources to surface water becoming contaminated as it ensure protection of the environment, prevent flows over or near a site. Alternatively the harm to human health and detriment to local ground within the site may become contami­ amenities. This is done by controlling the nated by the waste management activities and transport, storage, treatment and disposal of in turn any water percolating through the waste. ground or the waste may pick up contami­ Where this waste is regarded as particularly nants producing leachate. hazardous it is categorised as special waste and Biodegradable wastes breaking down under becomes the subject of a strict tracking proce­ anaerobic conditions will produce landfill gas, dure, under the Special Waste Regulations which a mixture of methane and carbon diox­ 1996, to ensure that it is disposed of at an ide with trace amounts of other organic gases appropriate site. and vapours. In enclosed spaces it may be an Waste from agricultural premises and waste asphyxiant and poses an explosive risk. Addi­ arising from mines and quarries are1 not classed tionally, because of its methane content it is a as controlled waste at present and are there­ strong greenhouse gas. fore not the subject of regulation by us. Con­ There is a potential problem from odours or sideration is currently being given by the DoE the escape of wastes from waste management into bringing these wastes within the defini­ sites, for example litter or fumes. A site may also cause nuisance from noise or dust; local

The Environment Agency South West Region IS The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 Environmental Health Departments have future water quality improvements. We have powers to control this nuisance and we liaise proposed our RQOs using a classification closely with them on these issues. scheme known as River Ecosystem (RE) which Planning for waste management is undertaken was introduced by the National Rivers Author­ by the : ity, following public consultation, in 1994. • Environment Agency who review current and The RQOs we set must be achievable and future waste generation and from this the size sustainable; we must be able to identify what and types of management facilities which are needs to be done to meet the RQO, and to required ensure as far as practicable that water quality • County Councils and Local Planning can be maintained at this level in the future. Authorities who are required ta make provision for sufficient and adequate facilities Where we are unable to identify solutions or resources to resolve current water quality 6.5 River Quality Objectives problems, we can also set a visionary or Long We manage water quality by setting River Term RQO; we will use this target as a basis for Quality Objectives (RQOs) which are intended setting consents for new discharges. This will to protect current water quality and future ensure that future developments will not use, and we use them as a basis for setting hinder our efforts to improve water quality. consents for new discharges and planning

RQO DO BOD Total Un-ionised PH . j Hardness Dissolved Total Class 1 RE % sat (ATU) Ammonia Ammonia 5 % lie & mg/l CaCO, Copper Zinc Description Use 10%ile mg/1 mgN/l mgN/l 95%tle ng/i HS/I Class 90% i!e ° 90% ile 95%ile 95%ilc 9S%ile 1 80 2.5 0.25 0.021 6.0-9.0 £10 5 30 Water of very >10 and £50 22 200 good quality >50 and £100 40 300 suitable for all >100 112 500 fish species 2 70 4.0 0.6 0.021 6.0-9.0 £10 5 30 Water of good >10 and £50 22 200 quality suitable >50 and £100 40 300 for all fish species 112 500 . _ >100 60 6.0 1.3 0.021 j 6.0-9.0 £10 5 300 Water of fair >10 and £50 22 700 quality suitable >50 and £100 40 1,000 for high class j >100 112 2,000 coarse fish [ populations 4 50 8.0 2.5 j 6.0-9.0 £10 15 300 Water of fair 22 | >10 and £50 700 quality suitable >50 and £100 40 1,000 for coarse fish >100 112 2,000 populations 5 20 15.0 9.0 Water of poor i | quality which is likely to limit i 1 coarse fish j t i i i i populations 1 ....

The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 16 The Environment Agency South West Region 6.6 Glossary of Terms 6.8 References CMP Catchment Management Plan Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report. DCC Dorset County Council London, HMSO 1995 (2 vols) DoE Department of the Environment Environment Act 1995, HMSO DoT Department of Transport Environmental Protection Act 1990, HMSO EC European Community Frome & Piddle Catchment Management Plan EN English Nature Consultation Report, NRA South FAS Flood Alleviation Scheme Western Region, March 1995, SW- GCT Game Conservancy Trust 3/95-1 k-E-ANAO GQA General Quality Assessment Frome & Piddle Catchment Management Plan LPA Local Planning Authority Final Report, NRA South Western Re­ MAFF Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and gion, February 1996, SW-2/96-0.8k-E- Food ASZK NRA National Rivers Authority Poole Harbour & Purbeck Catchment Man­ pa per annum agement Plan Consultation Report, RE River Ecosystem NRA Southwestern Region, Novem­ RQO River Quality Objective ber 1995, SW-1 l/95-0.8k-E-AQJQ RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Poole Harbour & Purbeck Catchment Man­ Birds agement Plan Final Report, NRA South SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest Western Region, March 1996, SW- STW Sewage Treatment Works 3/96-0.8k-E-ATNQ UWWTD Urban Waste Water Treatment Radioactive Substances Act 1993, HMSO Directive Tomorrow's Water; Water Resources Develop­ WWS Wessex Water Services Ltd ment Strategy, NRA South Western Region, April 1995, SW-4/95-lk-B- 6.7 Units ANOQ Water Industry Act 1991, HMSO Mid megalitres per day (1 megalitre = 1,000,000 litres) mg/l milligrams per litre jig/l micrograms per litre

The Environment Agency South West Region 17 The Frome & Piddle CMP First Annual Review 1997 Produced and distributed by:

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The fram e & Piddle CMP Pint Annual Review 1997 18 The Environment Agency South West Region