Creating new reedbed

Reedbeds can be created anywhere where, amongst other things there is:

• A reliable water supply, enough to maintain flow, and up to 300 mm of water depth in spring;
• Sufficient level ground or very shallow gradient;
• An available, vigorous reed source.

The first requirement is to create bed levels which conform to the above requirements. Then land-forming techniques can be used to establish the appropriate structure to the new wetland including open water, ditches and areas of shallow water for the establishment of reedbed proper. Thereafter, in areas where there is little or no existing reed then new plants will need to be introduced. The use of bunds, drainage ditches and sluices provide the means of manipulating water levels. Subsequent management of the successional stages in habitat development ensures the longterm viability of the created areas.

Comment: The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds' Reserve Management Information sheet provides most of the practical information required for creating and managing reedbed habitat.