Supported, by the Natural England Species Recovery Programme, West Cumbria Rivers Trust worked with local contractors to excavate a wildlife pond at a farm in Santon, near Holmrook and install pond and riverside fencing in 2024.
The pond was excavated in a permeant pasture field in a wet area dominated by soft rush. It intercepts surface and subsurface drainage therefore helping to improve downstream water quality as well as providing habitat in its own right. Fish have found their own way into the pond and the area was alive with dragon fly and bird activity when last visited in June 2025. The additional fencing means the surrounding fields can still be grazed but the pond and nearby River Irt are protected from livestock impacts.
Farming, forestry, nature and climate
The Lake District National Park Partnership is working in collaboration with farmers and land managers across the National Park to deliver nature recovery and climate resilience projects while supporting the continuation of farming and forestry and conservation of cultural heritage.
