Concern over canal work
I walk my dog along the canal in Oakham.
In my opinion the damage is a result of heavy machinery work this spring which loosened soil compacted over the years and removed vegetation, the roots of which helped bind the soil together and resist erosion.
Heavy rain earlier in the summer caused flooding and resultant bank weakening along the steepened and unprotected edges.
I, and most walkers, have respected the request not to allow our dogs to swim in this area and hostile and unpleasant notices were not necessary.
With regard to the environment, I have grave concerns about the claim of anglers to be 'protectors' after the type of work undertaken.
I respect clearing of the actual water, but not that on the sides. The section below the dam was a shrubby haven for birds and wildlife including kingfishers and water voles.
Now it is virtually stripped bare and wildlife diminished along the whole canal. Cleared material has been burnt, damaging leaves, bark and branches of growing trees.
Can I ask that work be performed with greater sensitivity to the environment.
Once the damage is done it takes years for the natural habitat to recover.
Respect is a two-way matter. Dog owners need to respect anglers, but anglers need to respect other peoples' interests and the wildlife environment.
Oakham resident
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Weather for Oakham
Monday 28 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 11 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North east
