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Titchwell Marsh
The lagoons at RSPB Titchwell Marsh nature reserve are nationally important for breeding avocets (between 7.2 and 9% of the UK population). The lagoons are also internationally important for an assemblage of wintering and passage waterfowl.
The ecological performance of the lagoon is dependent on the ability to precisely manage water levels and salinity levels. This would be totally lost if the tidal sluice failed through collapse or jamming.
In addition, invasion of nest islands by rank vegetation restricts the opportunities for bare mud nesting species, such as avocets, to breed and reed that encroaches on the edge of the lagoon restricts the opportunities for feeding by breeding birds and their chicks.
Actions to address threats
The main sluice in the sea wall that controls water levels and flow on and off the lagoon was old and was rebuilt to remove the risk of collapse. A novel design overcame the need for extensive excavation of the sea wall. It involved inserting a new steel sluice box inside the old wooden structure. A new flap valve was fitted to the seaward end of the pipe to prevent unwanted seawater entering the lagoon.
Each year, 130,000 people visit Titchwell Marsh
On nesting islands, encroaching vegetation is regularly controlled and water levels and salinity levels are constantly manipulated to provide optimum conditions for feeding waders and lagoon invertebrates.
Public awareness and information
Each year, 130,000 people visit Titchwell Marsh. Around 150 events are held at the reserve each year, most of which involve the management and wildlife of the Brackish Marsh saline lagoon.
Access paths and hides around the Brackish Marsh were upgraded to improve access for disabled visitors.
Survey and monitoring
Monitoring at the Brackish Marsh includes avocet breeding success, invertebrate populations, roost counts, wintering bird counts, predator activity, and weekly water levels and salinity levels.
Avocets are prone to nesting failure due to poor spring weather and predation.