A popular Thamesmead fishing spot is set to be transformed next week (31 August) with the installation of a new floating ‘eco-island’ in an Environment Agency project to create an attractive wildlife and fish habitat for Birchmere Lake.
Constructed of coir fibre mats derived from coconut husks, the floating island is held together by netting and planted with reeds, sedges and other native water plants. The island will cover an area of 64 square metres and will be constructed from 16 smaller units which will be towed into place by boat before being anchored to the lake’s bed.
As the plants grow they push their roots through the bottom of the island to dangle in the water beneath. This ‘suspended vegetation’ technique creates a canopy of roots beneath the island that provides excellent shelter and spawning habitat for the lake’s fish. Furthermore, smaller fish will be able to seek shelter in underwater cages which provide a higher level of protection against predators.
The root canopy also attracts invertebrates such as pond snails, hog lice, caddisfly and damselfly larvae. These are a source of food for the lake’s fish and for other species too, such as dragonflies, newts, frogs, toads and bats.
“Although Birchmere Lake has a good fish population overall, the aquatic environment is pretty barren,” said Matt Robson, fisheries team leader for the Environment Agency.
“There isn’t really enough of the greenery that fish need for shelter and as a result they’re easy prey for predatory birds such as cormorants.
“We wanted to address this with a sustainable, long-term solution that didn’t just improve things for the fish, but gave the entire eco-system a lift.”
And what’s good for the lake’s fish is also good for the anglers who use the lake too.
“Promoting angling is a key objective for us,” continued Mr Robson. “It’s a really inclusive sport, one for people of all ages and from all walks of life, and a great way of enjoying the UK’s green spaces.
“We’re also working with the local Thamesmead Town Angling Club, Gallions Housing and Thames21 to develop a programme to introduce newcomers to the sport in a structured way, using qualified coaches to get them off to a flying start.”
