Volume 21, 2021
Spatio-temporal analysis of the potential toxicological burden of pollutants in a fluvial system, the River Irwell, Manchester, through anthropogenic activities (present and historical) and natural mechanisms.
Haseeb Mahmood and Robert Sparkes,
Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University.
Abstract
Anthropogenic addition of trace metals (lead, cadmium, copper, zinc and nickel), metalloids (arsenic) and common pollutingions (phosphate, nitrate, sodium and chlorine) to rivers degrades water quality and affects human, animal and plant health. The River Irwell, Greater Manchester, which has a long history of industrial pollution, was sampled along a rural-urban transect during summer (July) and autumn (November) to assess water quality of the river. Analysis of trace metals, metalloids and ions, via ICP-OES and IC, found concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, phosphate and sodium exceeding environmental quality standards. Water quality has improved since the 1980s, but concentrations of copper, zinc and phosphate remain above guidelines and require urgent remediation. Several potential pollution sources were identified, including wastewater treatment plants, agricultural run-off and urban centres.
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Water sample sites (Opens in Google Earth)
Reconstructing the late nineteenth century landscape
and natural habitats of south west Accrington using the artwork of Thomas Frederick Worrall (1872–1957)
Rachael Jones
School of History, Politics and International Relations, University of Leicester, UK and tutor for the Advanced Diploma in Local History at the Oxford University Dept. for Continuing Education.
Abstract
In the late nineteenth century, the south western edge of Accrington in Lancashire was mainly rural with a few pockets of industrial activity. Using contemporary paintings and sketches by semi-professional artist Thomas Frederick Worrall and other primary sources including maps, censuses and newspaper reports, the author uses microhistorical techniques to recreate the landscape. These reveal that rich and multifarious habitats for wildlife were present but comparisons with later sources show that many of those features have gone. A depleted environment has been left which could be restored to an extent by using the findings here as a template. The article is a new approach to landscape analysis that adds to the nature writing of authorities including Richard Mabey, Mark Cocker and Robert McFarlane.
From bare peat desert to nature reserve within ten years: a review of restoration practice on Little Woolden Moss, Manchester, UK
Osborne, A.W.*1,6, Keightley, A.T.1,6, Ingleby, E.R.2, Longden, M.T.3,4, Rogers, A.V.5,6, Steel, D.6 and Davies, M.C.6
*Corresponding author.
1 Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.
2 North York Moors National Park Authority, Helmsley, UK.
3 School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.
4 Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Bolton, UK.
5 Moors for the Future Partnership, Edale, UK.
6 Lancashire Wildlife Trust (Volunteer), c/o Head Office, Preston, UK.
Abstract
Peat-harvesting results in significant carbon emissions and complete eradication of specialised flora and fauna on lowland peatlands; recovery can be lengthy, difficult and not always successful. This review documents the techniques and procedures
used to transform a bare peat-milled site into a functioning nature reserve within a decade. Site preparation, planting regimes, and methods of measuring progress are discussed, and evaluation of the site’s natural capital include three descriptive essays from an initial project officer, an experienced species recorder and a long-term volunteer. The aim of the review is both to celebrate the success of the venture and to offer experience gained to other lowland bog restoration managers.