THE EAST SUFFOLK CATCHMENTS PLAN
The core of the East Suffolk Catchments plan is a series of maps (pdf document or Online Map) which describe our catchments in terms of the ‘ecosystem services’ they provide us, such as; flood attenuation, water purification and green spaces.
The maps also show where pressures are acting on these ecosystems and identify ‘opportunity areas’ where improvement projects are likely to be most beneficial. The plan goes on to summarise the catchment improvement measures (Projects) that we aim to implement in East Suffolk over the coming years to maximise ecosystem service benefits and to help meet our Water Framework Directive obligations.
Ecosystem Services Opportunity Maps
The ecosystem services opportunity maps (pdf document or Online Map) forming the core of our Catchment Plan were developed by partnership members working alongside technical specialists using all available data relating to ecosystem services in the catchments. The ecosystem services that we considered - and the method for identifying opportunity areas where improvement projects would be most effective - is summarised below:
The online ecosystem services opportunity maps let you navigate your way around the catchment to explore the areas which provide the greatest potential to deliver ecosystem service improvements. To learn how to visit the ‘How to Use the web map and legends’ page.
Ecosystem Service Descriptions
For a more detailed description of what each of the following ecosystem services provides and how we assessed the opportunities to enhance them, click here to view the Ecosystem Service description:
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Water Quality Opportunities
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Wetland (Low Flow) Opportunities
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Wildlife Habitat Creation Opportunities
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Recreational Opportunities
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Multifunctional Ecosystem Service Opportunities
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Multifunctional Ecosystem Services Provision/Risk
Background Information Maps
In addition to the interactive ecosystem services opportunity maps you can also view a pdf version of the maps and explanation developed by the partnership to provide a detailed picture of the landscape features responsible for the ecosystem services along with the priority drivers, receptors and beneficiaries of each of the services.