Towards a sustainable management of pond diversity at the landscape level

(2006-2010)

www.pondscape.bePONDSCAPE

NetworkC: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural SciencesK. Martens, B. Goddeeris, D. Ercken, E. De Roeck

P2: Catholic University of Leuven L. De Meester, S. Declerck, T. De Bie

P3: University of GhentW. Vyverman, K. Van Der Gucht, P. Vanormelingen, M. Villena Alvarez

P4: University of NamurP. Kestemont, R. Mandiki, A. Castiaux, K. Morelle

P5: University of LuxembourgH-M. Cauchie

NetworkAssociated partners:INBO: L. Denys, D. Bauwens Natuurpunt: M. HerremansBotanical Garden: L. VanheckeUniversity of Lige: B. Losson, Y. Caron

Strategic objectivesRecommendations for scientifically underpinned management of ponds

Conserve and enhance biodiversity at various scales (local, regional, landscape)

Sustain economic activities and ensure economic growth

Operational objectives Study the organization of pond biodiversity including ecosystem functioning at multiple spatial scales relate it with important driving variables (pond age)

Quantify effects of management strategies on local and regional pond biota biodiversity

Operational objectives Broaden knowledge on pollutants and their effect on pond biota

Obtain insights into the way stakeholders value risks and benefits of ponds

Investigate how the creation and maintenance of ponds can be promoted in a sustainable way

WP1: Biodiversity at multiple spatial scales: patterns and driving variables

WP2: Biodiversity and pond age

WP3: Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning

WP4: Assessment of management techniques

WP5: Pollutants and biodiversity

WP6: Social and economic relevance to stakeholders

WP7: Valuation of results, policy, recommendationsWork packages

Ponds in Belgium and Luxembourg(sampling in 2007, 2008, 2009)

- Water quality and pollution- Different organism groups* Bacteria* Diatomea * Phytoplankton* Zooplankton* Macro-invertebrates * Amphibians * VegetationStudy area, materials & methods

Study area, materials & methodsCase study: Tommelen bomb crater complexManagement: dredgingSame ageWWII -1944