The lake in Rowntree Park is both a vital part of the flood defences and also part of the eco system, attracting a range of wildlife. However, a combination of debris from floods, stagnant areas, goose poo build up and generally not being adequately maintained for a number of years – led to a bit of an unsightly state earlier this summer. The lakes are part of the council’s responsibilities, though the Friends of Rowntree park often have them on thew agenda for discussions at meetings.
Back in early June, Abigail (FRP Charity Manager) and Stu (FRP Gardening Lead) met with Ed Bland, Operation’s Manager from York Council, to discuss the state of the lakes in Rowntree Park and possible solutions to improve the area. We are pleased that in mid August the council started taking some action aiming to improve the lakes. This work has included removing some debris and weed from the lake and has focused on just one side of the lake at present.
The lake reached a ‘state’ in summer because of a number of ongoing factors stated below. This information is from the council:
The council dropped the lake level 10 cm; to allow the installation of new gullies at the play area end of the lake to help our winter flooding problem. This keeps the play area usable throughout the year. This exposed a fair bit of silt and mud at that end, which has a green film on it. There was a lot of of pond weed on the lake and this is in part due to the build-up of nutrient from years from goose poo. The lake has always had some degree of weed build in the summer as there is no freshwater flow. Therefore a shallow lake, combined with warm temperatures and nutrients has led to the situation. In addition, flooding and general windfall brings debris to the lake.
The short term solution was for the council to bring in a digger and remove some of the mud and debris. Normal rainfall will lead the lake to get back to its usual level after levels being dropped purposefully.
Longer term solutions include annual removing silt/debris build up, looking at drainage systems, and utilising expert advise. It is possible the second half of the lake may be cleared in Autumn if there is council capacity.
The lake remains a council responsibility and the FRP don’t have the capacity and resources to take responsibility for this area. However, if there are volunteers interested in the lake in general, we’d be happy to form a sub group – this may include researching ways to improve the lake and working with the council on actions. Contact Abigail at hello@rowntreepark.org.uk
