Acidic tarns

There are numerous peaty tarns in the central, western and northern upland areas.

The most extensive are Summer Lodge Tarn and Fountains Fell Tarn. The acidic nature of these tarns makes them relatively species poor but the boggy areas surrounding them are important for breeding waders such as curlew, lapwing and snipe. Acidic tarns are of medium biodiversity value.

Habitat Statement

Conservation objectives

• To ensure that adjacent land-use does not adversely affect the biodiversity status of acid tarns.

• To maintain water levels and natural flow patterns within and around acid tarns.

Conservation measures

• Ensure that agri-environment schemes are targeted at encouraging the appropriate sustainable management of land adjacent to acid tarns within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

• Reduce nutrient enrichment from animal faeces by agreeing watering sites and bankside protection within management grant schemes.

• Prevent toxic pollution incidents from spoil tips or bracken spraying.

• Encourage the blocking of moorland drains through management grant schemes.

• Encourage sustainable land management practices through advice and management grant schemes.