Are you interested in becoming a pond warden?
Are you part of a group, a school, or just an individual, who enjoys visiting, or looking after ponds? Do you have time to meet once or twice a year?
What is a pond warden?
A pond warden is a volunteer who is interested in helping to look after ponds in their own local area. The activities in which a pond warden can get involved are varied, such as surveying and monitoring, pond management and involving local people.
Survey and monitoring
This entails such things as finding out what is there, what has been lost, what is colonising and what is visiting the pond. This information is essential knowledge for pond management. Records such as photographs, species lists, or other written records are also particularly valuable.
Pond management
Each pond will require a unique set of tasks to protect or enhance its value for wildlife. Some ponds, already have good management plans that take account of the sites value, but many others may require new or revised plans. The Council's Environment Projects Officer for WildDerby can advise on these aspects.
Involvement of local people
Open events such as the Day of Pondomania, pond dipping, nature walks or even a morning's litter clearing can be a good way of getting more people to take an interest in their local ponds.
To find out what the Derby City Pond Warden Association have been doing recently, download their Spring 2010 
514kb newsletter. For back issues of newsletters, visit the Derby City Pond Warden Association website.
Why are pond wardens needed?
Ponds and lakes are important places for wildlife in Derby. The Derby City Pond Survey 2004/05 has provided us with information about the number, quality and location of ponds within the city. It revealed an 88% decline in the number of ponds in the last 100 years, with only six having retained great crested newts. However there were a total of 88 different wetland plants across the 69 ponds surveyed.
Nationally, about two thirds of all Britain's freshwater plants and animals are found in ponds. There are at least 4000 species of freshwater invertebrates in the UK, over two thirds of which are found in ponds. Without ponds there would be nowhere for frogs, toads or newts to breed.
Ponds are also important for people. Ponds have enormous educational, historical and cultural value. Ponds can introduce children to the way in which nature works in the countryside around them.
Volunteer pond wardens are a valuable asset to the work of WildDerby because they are local to the area and have a 'finger on the pulse' of what's happening with 'their' pond. They can contribute to the maintenance of optimal conditions for our ponds and their wildlife, so they thrive for our pleasure and for future generations.
What is the time commitment?
As much, or as little as you can spare. Some tasks, such as keeping an eye on the pond, could be combined with current activities, such as walking the dog, or taking the children to school. Perhaps you could join with family or neighbours for a 'local project'.
What skills and knowledge do I need to be a pond warden?
The most important quality is to have some passion for local ponds and wildlife. Some training will be available along with information packs and regular newsletters.
What support will I get?
WildDerby will offer training, information, networking opportunities and equipment loan, and if necessary a pond near you. Please gain permission from the landowner if it is in private ownership.
What's in it for me?
The satisfaction of contributing to the maintenance of your local environment and pond life. Holding 'open days' on your pond and networking with other pond wardens. But above all, having fun!
Contacts for pond wardens
Environment Projects Officer for WildDerby
Derby City Council
Regeneration and Community Department
Plans and Policies Section
Roman House
Friar Gate
Derby DE1 1XB
Telephone 01332 255021 Minicom 01332 256666 Fax 01332 255989 email wildderby@derby.gov.uk
Derby City Pond Warden Association (DCPWA)
Telephone 01332 830657 email dcpwa@aol.com web DCPWA website
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
East Mill
Bridge Foot
Belper
Derbyshire DE56 1XH
Telephone 01773 881188 email enquiries@derbyshirewt.co.uk web Derbyshire Wildlife Trust website