The National Trust’s Dudmaston Estate, located near Bridgnorth in Shropshire, encompasses several large fields situated on the floodplain of the River Severn. As part of a habitat restoration initiative, the Trust is converting one of these fields back into a traditional wildflower meadow.
In one corner of the field lay a ‘ghost pond’—a remnant of a former pond, now overgrown with reeds. The Trust aimed to restore this pond but first needed assurance that it would retain water throughout the year.
To assess this, Dr Buss conducted a hydrogeological survey of the site. The investigation involved installing several shallow boreholes to monitor groundwater levels during spring and summer, as well as to determine the direction and consistency of groundwater flow. Trail cameras were also deployed to track the onset and recession of field flooding.
The study concluded that the groundwater was shallow enough that the restored pond would sit below the water table, ensuring a reliable, year-round water supply. Moreover, water quality testing revealed low levels of nitrates and phosphates — ideal conditions for the growth of aquatic plants rather than algae.
Following these findings, the meadow was successfully restored, and the ghost pond was excavated and planted.
More details on the project are available on the National Trust’s website.
