Ewelme/Benson Brook - Help keep it healthy
We are lucky to have a chalk stream in our area - the shortest in the Chilterns running between Ewelme and Benson and on into the River Thames and one of only 210 in the world.
Healthy rivers, streams, ponds and lakes rely on insects. Species such as dragonflies, damselflies, and freshwater beetles spend much of their life underwater and are essential to the food chain. They are prey for fish, birds (think kingfishers, grey wagtails and more), and other wildlife. They provide vital habitat, cover from predators and act as a wildlife corridor.
Insects are sensitive to habitat loss as well as pollution. Keeping a marginal fringe of plants around the brook and minimizing pollution through chemical use both in the garden (and on your pets too if they like the water) are actions we can all take to minimise these risks.
In addition, if you are lucky enough to have the chalk stream on or adjacent to your property, the guide gives further information as to how you can help.
Alternative flea treatments for dogs
Flea treatments for dogs, particularly those containing imidacloprid (a neonicotinoid) and fipronil can harm a wide range of aquatic life - mayflies, dragonflies, caddis larvae etc. It is estimated that just one monthly flea treatment for a large dog contains enough imidacloprid to kill c25 million bees.
We recognise that many dogs love a good splash in a stream and we are definitely not “anti-dog”. But there are some actions dog-owners can take to mitigate the potential harms. Fipronil and similar chemicals remain on a pet’s coat for weeks and can stay active for up to 90 days, even though they kill fleas within just 24–36 hours. By wiping out aquatic invertebrates these chemicals disrupt the delicate balance of wetland ecosystems.
To protect waterways, alternative treatments, such as chewable tablets or non-toxic tick treatments, containing dimethicone are recommended. If using a spot-on treatment, please try to avoid letting your dog swim or get wet after application, as the chemicals wash off and enter the water.
The Norfolk Broads Park Authority have explored this issue in detail. You can find additional interesting but brief information about how dog owners can help at: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/looking-after/managing-land-and-water/waterquality/flea-treatments-and-their-impact-on-water-quality.