River Beane Farmer Cluster Launches Ambitious ‘One Hundred Wetlands’ Project

On December 10, 2025, the River Beane Farmer Cluster, in partnership with FWAG East, officially launched the One Hundred Wetlands Project—an ambitious initiative to restore and create 100 clean-water headwater wetlands across the River Beane catchment. This project aims to bring life back to a rare chalk stream landscape, enhancing biodiversity, improving water quality, and building resilience for the future.

Richard Wilson, Farm Manager at Kingswoodbury Farm with Farm owners Cassie Hilldrow (left) and Rachel Mabey (right) being presented with the certificate for completing the first three wetlands in the one hundred wetlands project.

The launch took place at Kingswoodbury Farm near Baldock, where around 20 farmers gathered to see the first steps in action. They explored three ponds that had been hidden for decades beneath dense scrub and layers of organic sludge from years of leaf fall. Thanks to careful restoration—scrub cleared, smaller trees coppiced, and accumulated sludge removed—these ponds are now open to light and ready to thrive as vibrant clean-water systems. Soon, they will teem with aquatic plants and insects, creating vital habitats for wildlife.

Lucy Jenkins, FWAG East’s pond restoration expert, shared a fascinating insight during the event: seeds of aquatic plants can remain viable for over a century. “This means we could see species re-emerge that last grew here more than 100 years ago,” she explained, highlighting the incredible resilience of these ecosystems.

FWAG East’s Lucy Jenkins (red coat) at Kingswoodbury Farm explaining to the River Beane Farmer Cluster the benefits of creating and restoring farm ponds.

The day ended with a certificate presentation to Richard Wilson of Kingswoodbury Farm, who restored wetlands number one, two, and three of the project’s 100-pond ambition. Reflecting on the transformation, Richard said, “Prior to restoration, you would not have even known these ponds were here. It’s been fascinating to see them fill with water so quickly, and I look forward to watching them flourish and attract more wildlife.”

Shaun Dowman, speaking on behalf of FWAG East and the Farmer Cluster, outlined the funding strategy behind the initiative: “This new project will draw on a range of funding routes, from national schemes to local initiatives, to achieve our goal of 100 restored headwater wetlands. We have the sites and the expertise ready; securing diverse funding streams is key to delivering wetlands that store water, improve water quality, store carbon, and create vital habitats across the landscape.”

A restored farmland pond in the Hertfordshire. 

The first three ponds were made possible thanks to support from Affinity Water’s Rooting for Wildlife Fund and Natural England’s District Level Licensing project. To reach the ambitious target of 100 wetlands, FWAG East is actively seeking additional funding partners. Local organisations and businesses have a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on water, wildlife, and climate resilience in the Beane catchment. By supporting this project, you’ll help create a lasting legacy for the environment and the community.

If you’d like to learn more or discuss funding opportunities, please contact Shaun Dowman at FWAG East via email at shaun.dowman@fwageast.org.uk. You can also explore FWAG East’s wider conservation work at www.fwageast.org.uk.