Macrophyte surveys of ditches across Sussex

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Extensive surveys of the aquatic and marginal floral communities in ditches of high ecological value at several grazing marsh sites across Sussex in order to assess their conservation value and monitor any potential impacts on the ditch networks from eutrophication. Surveys were carried using the Mean Trophic Rank (MTR) method in May and July to assess both early stage and climax growth and structure of the communities.

Sites included: the Pevensey Levels, and the Pulborough Brooks, Amberley Brooks and Waltham Brooks RSPB reserves. Several uncommon species were identified during the surveys, including the  nationally rare Potamogeton acutifolius, for which the Pevensey, Amberly and Pulborough sites are strongholds.