Ecohydrological Study of Stepping Hill Mire, Bodmin Moor

Tender description

Both Steping Hill mire and Roughtor Marsh are valley mires situated in the headwaters of the De Lank River, on Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, at approximately SX139792 and SX155816 respectively. They are part of the Bodmin Moor North Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and in the case of Roughtor Marsh also part of the River Camel Valley and Tributaries SSSI/River Camel Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Part of the Steping Hill mire is surrounded by conifers, planted in the 1970s, with associated ditching, and the main stream that runs through the valley also appears to have been modified. In addition, early medieval peat cutting earthworks are visible on aerial photography. Project aims The aims of this project are to: 1. (i) Review the current ecohydrological status of the Steping Hill mire and Roughtor Marsh mire systems; (ii) evaluate the interventions necessary to restore full or partial natural functioning, (iii) evaluate the feasibility and approximate estimated cost of those interventions; and (iv) produce outline restoration plans suitable for consultation with owners, graziers and statutory consultees. Optional Requirement Carry out a National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey of the Steping Hill mire system (NVC survey of Roughtor Marsh not required). This is an optional element and is not part of the core requirement of the specification. Therefore, this element will not be evaluated in accordance with the scoring criteria stated in the document. However, you must submit a separate proposal (including costs) to undertake this requirement.