Studio 7
TREADING WATERS
Reclaiming Wetlands for a Resilient New Forest
Project Statement The project is situated in the New Forest National Park in southern England, an area renowned for its heathlands and wetlands. However, over the past few decades, agricultural drainage systems have significantly altered the wetland ecosystems, leading to the drying up of mires and bogs. This degradation, exacerbated by climate change and rising temperatures, poses a severe threat to the New Forest’s biodiversity, particularly to breeding waders such as lapwing, redshank, curlew, and snipe. The decline in suitable breeding habitats has led to a reduction in bird populations, disrupting the broader ecosystem. Additionally, recreational activities in the area create micro-disturbances that further deter waders from nesting, compounding the challenge. In response to these pressing issues, the project focuses on two primary objectives: Restoration and Preservation of Wetlands: The project aims to restore and enhance wetland systems by implementing measures to trap water and retain moisture during the hot summer months. This not only supports the survival of wetland habitats but also mitigates the risk of wildfires, thereby contributing to the overall resilience of the New Forest ecosystem. Creating Disturbance-Resilient Wader Habitats: To address the impact of recreational activities, the project proposes the creation of “bog islands”— specialized habitats designed to integrate human presence with nature. By establishing buffer zones, these islands will provide wader species with safe, undisturbed breeding grounds while allowing for controlled human access. This innovative approach seeks to balance the needs of wildlife with the realities of human activity, ensuring that wader populations can thrive without being displaced by recreational disturbances.
Author’s own Student Name - Radhika Maheshwari Student no. 22216269 Design Tutors - Gunther Galligioni Christina Leigh Geros Module name - Advance landscape design 2 MLA2 23/24 Module code - BARC0113 1
The ultimate goal of this project is to restore and improve wetland environments while designing and implementing habitats that protect breeding waders from both environmental and anthropogenic threats, thereby supporting the long-term health and diversity of the New Forest