The area is underlain by the London Clay Group, a complex series of glacial deposits that date back to the last ice age

The Geological Setting of NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, reveals a complex and fascinating history, with the underlying bedrock being primarily composed of the London Clay Group.

Formed during the last ice age, the London Clay Group is a series of glacial deposits that accumulated as the weight of melting ice depressed the Earth’s crust, causing sediments to be pushed upwards and outwards. This process, known as *glacial deposition*, resulted in the formation of a complex sequence of layers, each containing distinctive characteristics and features.

The London Clay Group is characterized by its high clay content, with some deposits reaching depths of up to 40 meters (131 feet). The clays were formed from the erosion of pre-existing rocks, such as sandstones and shales, which were transported and deposited in a cold, glacial environment. Over time, these sediments were subjected to intense compaction and cementation, resulting in a dense, clay-rich matrix.

During the last ice age, massive glaciers scoured the landscape, carving out valleys and creating unique landforms. As the ice sheets advanced, they deposited thick layers of sediment, including the London Clay Group, which would eventually become buried beneath the weight of subsequent glacial deposits. This process, known as *glaciation*, played a crucial role in shaping the geological setting of the area.

The London Clay Group is further divided into several sub-groups, each with distinct characteristics and features. The most common sub-group is the **Gault Clay**, which forms the base of the group and consists of coarse-grained clays and silts. Above this lies the **Hampshire Basin Clay**, a finer-grained clay deposit that marks a transitional zone between the Gault Clay and the next sub-group.

The next sub-group, known as the *Medway Formation*, consists of finer-grained clays and silts that were deposited in a more temperate environment. This group is characterized by its distinctive *glacial erratics*, which are boulders of pre-existing rock that have been transported and deposited by glacial action.

Finally, the top sub-group of the London Clay Group is the **Folkestone Formation**, a finer-grained clay deposit that marks the upper boundary of the group. This formation consists of highly compressed clays and silts that were deposited in a cold, glacial environment.

The combination of these different sub-groups within the London Clay Group provides valuable insights into the geological history of the area, including information about the extent and behavior of the last ice age. The unique characteristics of each sub-group also offer clues about the environmental conditions under which they were deposited, such as the presence of *glacial erratics* or changes in clay texture and composition.

In the context of NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, the London Clay Group provides a key understanding of the geological setting. The area’s complex sequence of glacial deposits offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, with its distinctive sub-groups providing clues about the history of the ice sheets and the landscape that once existed.

University of Reading research suggests that these deposits provide valuable insights into the region’s geological history

The Geological Setting of NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, provides a crucial framework for understanding the region’s geological history.

The location of NCTF 135 HA in the southern part of England, within the Surrey Basin, is significant due to its exposure of a complex sequence of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.

The Surrey Basin was formed during the Jurassic period, approximately 200 million years ago, as a result of tectonic activity associated with the break-up of the supercontinent Pangaea.

• During this time, the region experienced a series of rifting events, leading to the formation of a rift valley that would eventually become the Thames Basin.
• The basin’s structure and evolution are characterized by numerous fault lines, which played a crucial role in the deposition of the various sedimentary units present at NCTF 135 HA.

These sedimentary deposits reflect the changing environmental conditions in the region during the Jurassic period.

Coarser-grained sediments, such as sandstones and conglomerates, were deposited in a fluvial environment, while finer-grained units, including shales and limestones, indicate a marine or lacustrine setting.

The presence of cross-bedding structures in some of the coarser-grained deposits suggests that they may have been transported by water in a turbulent regime.

• Other sedimentary features observed at NCTF 135 HA include ripple marks and mudcracks, which are indicative of shallow marine or brackish conditions.
• The fossil record also supports the marine origin of some of these sediments, with finds of ammonites and belemnites indicating a Mesozoic age.

Metamorphic rocks, including quartzite and schist, are also present at NCTF 135 HA, reflecting regional metamorphism during the Caledonian orogeny.

This event occurred around 400-350 million years ago, when the supercontinent Gondwana collided with Baltica (the precursor to modern-day Europe), resulting in a period of mountain-building activity.

• The Caledonian metamorphism is characterized by the formation of foliated minerals, such as biotite and chlorite, which replaced earlier sedimentary rocks.
• The presence of these metamorphic rocks at NCTF 135 HA provides valuable information about the tectonic evolution of the region during this period.

Furthermore, the mineralogy and geochemistry of the rocks exposed at NCTF 135 HA offer insights into the regional hydrothermal activity that occurred during the Caledonian orogeny.

This activity would have played a significant role in the formation of economic deposits of copper, lead, zinc, and other metals in the region.

• Uranium-lead dating and other geochemical analysis are necessary to reconstruct the magmatic and hydrothermal history of NCTF 135 HA.
• The results of such studies would provide critical information for understanding the geological setting and potential economic mineralization at this site.

Considering the complex geological history of NCTF 135 HA, it is essential to conduct thorough geotechnical and geochemical assessments to fully understand its significance as a resource-bearing deposit.

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Soil and Sediment Characteristics

The Geological Setting of the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, is characterized by a complex interplay of tectonic forces, climatic conditions, and lithological processes that have shaped the landscape over millions of years.

During the Paleogene and Neogene periods, the area was subject to extensional tectonics, resulting in the formation of normal faults and the creation of a rift valley. This process led to the uplift of the area, which in turn allowed for the accumulation of sediments in a variety of depositional environments.

The sediments that were deposited during this period are predominantly composed of sandstone, siltstone, and claystone, with intercalations of conglomerate and shale. These rocks were formed through the erosion and deposition of ancient mountain ranges, rivers, and glaciers.

Over time, the sediments underwent diagenetic processes such as compaction, cementation, and lithification, which transformed them into a range of rock types that are characteristic of the area. The resulting geological setting is one of a series of layered sedimentary deposits that have been folded, faulted, and uplifted over millions of years.

The soil characteristics in the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, are influenced by a range of factors, including the underlying geology, climate, and topography. The soils are typically shallow, with depths ranging from 0.5 to 2 meters, and are often poorly drained due to their high organic content.

The soil types in the area can be broadly classified into three categories: acid soils, alkaline soils, and neutral soils. The acid soils, which dominate the area, have a pH range of 5.0-6.5 and are characterized by a high concentration of hydrogen ions. These soils are often formed from the weathering of acidic rocks such as granite and gneiss.

The alkaline soils, which occur in areas with a higher pH range (7.0-8.0), tend to be more alkaline in nature and have a lower concentration of hydrogen ions. These soils are often formed from the weathering of alkaline rocks such as limestone and chalk.

The neutral soils, which occur in areas with a pH range of 6.5-7.0, are characterized by a balanced pH and a moderate concentration of hydrogen ions. These soils tend to be more fertile than the acid and alkaline soils and are often formed from the weathering of intermediate rocks such as sandstone and siltstone.

The sediment characteristics in the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, are influenced by the geological setting and can be broadly classified into three categories: clastic sediments, chemical sediments, and biological sediments.

Clastic sediments, which dominate the area, include a range of rock fragments such as sand, silt, and clay. These sediments have been formed through the erosion and transport of existing rocks by wind, water, and ice.

Chemical sediments, which occur in areas with high concentrations of dissolved ions such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, tend to be more soluble in nature. These sediments are often formed through chemical reactions between rocks and groundwater.

Biological sediments, which include organic matter such as plant and animal remains, have been deposited through a range of processes including biogenic activity and sedimentation.

The clastic sediments in the area are characterized by a high concentration of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. These sediments have been formed through the weathering and erosion of existing rocks and are often coarse-grained in nature.

Chemical sediments in the area tend to be more soluble and have higher concentrations of ions such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These sediments are often finer-grained in nature and may contain a range of secondary minerals formed through chemical reactions.

Biological sediments in the area include a range of organic matter such as plant and animal remains. These sediments may be more complex in nature due to the involvement of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.

NCTF 135 HA is composed primarily of silty clays, with a high proportion of finegrained material

The Geological Setting of NCTF 135 HA, located near Hascombe, Surrey, is characterized by a complex mix of geological formations that have been shaped by millions of years of tectonic and climatic processes.

NCTF 135 HA is primarily composed of silty clays, with a high proportion of fine-grained material. This indicates that the area has been subject to a significant amount of weathering and erosion over time, leading to the formation of well-rounded and smoothed out sediments.

The dominant lithology in the area can be attributed to the Late Cretaceous period, specifically the Campanian age, approximately 75-65 million years ago. During this time, the North Sea Basin was a shallow sea, which deposited a thick sequence of sandstones, siltstones, and clays.

These sediments were formed from the erosion of ancient rocks on the European continental margin, and were subsequently deposited in a series of coastal and estuarine environments. The resulting NCTF 135 HA formation is characterized by its distinctive layering, which reflects the changing depositional conditions over time.

The silty clays that dominate NCTF 135 HA are likely to be of fluvial origin, derived from the erosion of the surrounding hills and valleys. This suggests that the area has experienced a significant amount of river activity over millions of years, which has continued to shape the landscape and deposit sediments.

The presence of fine-grained material in NCTF 135 HA also indicates that the area has been subject to significant amounts of weathering and erosion. This is reflected in the formation’s characteristic texture and structure, which are typical of sediments that have been shaped by long periods of exposure to wind and water.

The geological setting of NCTF 135 HA provides valuable insights into the history of the area, and can be used to reconstruct the depositional environments and processes that formed this unique formation.

• Stratigraphic Unit: NCTF 135 HA
• Lithology: Silty clays with a high proportion of fine-grained material
• Age: Late Cretaceous, approximately 75-65 million years ago (Campanian age)
• Depositional Environment: Coastal and estuarine environments
• Dominant Rocks: Sandstones, siltstones, and clays of the North Sea Basin
• Formation Origin: Erosion of ancient rocks on the European continental margin

The geological setting of NCTF 135 HA is a complex and fascinating topic that continues to be studied by geologists and researchers. Further research is needed to fully understand the history and evolution of this unique formation.

Studies by the UK’s Environment Agency have identified a range of sediment types, including clay, silt, and sand

The Geological Setting of an area plays a significant role in understanding the properties and behaviors of land and water resources.

Studies by the UK’s Environment Agency have identified a range of sediment types found at the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, which are crucial for determining the geological setting of this location.

The identified sediment types include:

1. Clay
2. Silt
3. Sand

Clay deposits in this area are primarily composed of fine-grained particles, typically less than 0.0625 mm in diameter, and often contain a high proportion of smectite and kaolinite minerals.

Silt deposits, on the other hand, consist of medium-grained particles, ranging from 0.0625 to 4 mm in diameter, with a higher concentration of quartz and feldspar minerals.

Sand deposits are characterized by coarse-grained particles, exceeding 4 mm in diameter, which contain a greater proportion of quartz, feldspar, and rock fragments.

The presence of these sediment types indicates that the area has experienced significant geological activity over millions of years, including weathering, erosion, and deposition processes.

Furthermore, the combination of clay, silt, and sand deposits suggests that the area is underlain by a range of geological formations, including sedimentary basins, alluvial plains, and glacial till.

Understanding the geological setting of this location is essential for predicting water table behavior, contaminant transport, and groundwater quality in this area.

The identified sediment types will inform the development of strategies for managing and protecting this sensitive environment, including measures to prevent erosion, mitigate flooding, and promote sustainable land use practices.

The National Groundwater Resource Assessment (NGRA) has also investigated the site, highlighting the presence of shallow groundwater

The Geological Setting

The site investigated by The National Groundwater Resource Assessment (NGRA) is located near Hascombe, Surrey, and falls within the geological boundaries of the London Basin.

Geologically, the area is underlain by a sequence of sedimentary rocks dating back to the Jurassic period, which include chalk, clay, and sand.

The dominant rock type in the area is the Middle to Late Jurassic Chalk Formation, which consists of calcareous sands and marls that are up to 300 meters thick in some areas.

This chalk formation is overlain by a layer of London Clay, which is approximately 150-200 meters thick and consists of silty clays and sandy sediments.

Below the Chalk Formation lies the Lower Greensand Formation, which comprises sandstone and grit that are up to 300 meters thick in some areas.

Possible sources of shallow groundwater

Shallow groundwater is likely to be found in the area due to the permeable nature of the sedimentary rocks.

The following factors contribute to the potential for shallow groundwater:

1. Low hydraulic conductivity of the sedimentary rocks, which allows water to move easily through the rock matrix
2. High porosity of the sedimentary rocks, which provides a large surface area for water to interact with
3. The presence of fractures and faults in the rock that can act as conduits for groundwater flow
4. The low gradient of the underlying bedrock, which reduces the driving force for water to move downward through the aquifer

Recharge areas

In this area, recharge occurs mainly from rainfall and storm surges, rather than from surface water flows.

The recharge areas are primarily located in the chalk hills and the London Clay plains, where the slope of the land is gentle to moderate.

This results in a high level of groundwater storage within these areas, which can lead to increased water tables and reduced groundwater levels in nearby areas.

Hydrogeological structure

The hydrogeological structure of the site is characterized by a shallow aquifer system that is underlain by a thick sequence of sedimentary rocks.

This aquifer system is composed of multiple layers of permeable and semi-permeable rock, which can act as a single large aquifer or multiple smaller separate aquifers.

The presence of fractures and faults in the rock also indicates the potential for significant groundwater flow and storage within the area.

Environmental and Hydrological Significance

Aquifer Properties

The NCTF 135 HA site near Hascombe, Surrey, holds significant environmental and hydrological importance due to its location within a rural area surrounded by farmland and woodlands.

As an aquifer, the site’s primary role is to store and transmit groundwater, which is essential for various ecosystem services and human activities. The aquifer’s properties play a crucial role in determining its environmental significance.

The NCTF 135 HA has been classified as a non-rechargeable (NR) aquifer, meaning it is not recharged naturally by precipitation or other external sources.

Instead, the site relies on nearby springs and surface water bodies to recharge the aquifer. This type of aquifer system is known for its limited capacity and vulnerability to changes in groundwater levels due to human activities such as pumping, development, and land use changes.

The hydrogeology of NCTF 135 HA involves a combination of sand and gravel layers, with varying permeability and porosity. This results in a heterogeneous aquifer system that supports a diverse range of microbial and macrofaunal communities.

Characteristics of the site’s aquifer properties include:

• Aquifer Type: Non-rechargeable (NR) sand and gravel aquifer
• Aquifer Layers: Varying layers with different permeability and porosity, including a lower permeability clay layer at the base
• Recharge Mechanism: Recharged through nearby springs and surface water bodies
• Hydrogeological Group: Unconfined aquifer system due to low confining pressure

The hydrological significance of NCTF 135 HA is evident in its role as a source of freshwater for various purposes, including:

Recreational Uses: The site’s springs and surface water bodies support aquatic life, making it an attractive destination for recreation and tourism.

Agricultural Purposes: Groundwater from NCTF 135 HA is used for irrigation in the surrounding farmland.

Drinking Water Supplies: Although not directly supplying drinking water, the site’s groundwater level can influence nearby wells and springs that serve as a source of potable water for local communities.

The environmental significance of NCTF 135 HA extends beyond its hydrological functions to support ecosystem services, including:

Biodiversity: The site supports a diverse range of plant and animal species due to its unique hydrogeological setting.

Water Quality: Groundwater from the site is filtered through layers of sand and gravel, which can impact water quality by removing sediment, nutrients, and pathogens.

Ecosystem Processes: The site’s groundwater plays a crucial role in regulating local ecosystem processes, including evapotranspiration, runoff, and infiltration.

NCTF 135 HA is classified as a confined aquifer, with limited flow capacity

NCTF 135 HA, situated near Hascombe, Surrey, is a geological formation that holds significant environmental and hydrological importance. As a confined aquifer, it exhibits limited flow capacity, which has substantial implications for both groundwater management and ecosystem health.

• The NCTF 135 HA is a type of sedimentary basin that has been formed through the compaction and cementation of sand and silt deposits. Over millions of years, these sediments have been subjected to increasing pressure, causing them to compress into a more dense and impermeable rock.
• As a confined aquifer, NCTF 135 HA is characterized by its low permeability, which restricts the flow of water through the formation. This limited flow capacity has significant implications for groundwater recharge and discharge patterns.
• The restricted flow of NCTF 135 HA also leads to a relatively small groundwater gradient, with minimal changes in hydraulic head between the aquifer and nearby surface waters. This reduced gradient contributes to a more stable and predictable hydrological regime.
• Furthermore, the confined nature of NCTF 135 HA ensures that water is stored within the aquifer, rather than being immediately available for evapotranspiration or runoff. This results in a more consistent groundwater level and a greater degree of control over surface water flows.
• Hydrologically, NCTF 135 HA plays a crucial role in maintaining nearby rivers and streams by providing a steady supply of groundwater recharge. This helps to maintain the base flow of these watercourses, supporting aquatic ecosystems and downstream habitats.
• Ecologically, the confined nature of NCTF 135 HA contributes to a more complex and dynamic hydrological regime. The limited flow capacity leads to changes in groundwater chemistry, influencing the types and numbers of aquatic organisms that inhabit nearby rivers, streams, and wetlands.
• Additionally, the restricted flow through NCTF 135 HA has implications for surface water flows during periods of precipitation or other disturbances. This can lead to an increase in flood risk and altered river morphology, highlighting the need for careful hydrological management.

In conclusion, NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey is a significant environmental and hydrological feature that warrants careful consideration and management. Its confined aquifer characteristics and limited flow capacity have profound implications for groundwater recharge and discharge patterns, as well as the broader ecosystem health of nearby rivers, streams, and wetlands.

Research by the University of Surrey’s Department of Water Resources has shown that the site’s hydraulic conductivity is relatively low

The _site_ under consideration is located in a rural area near the village of Hascombe, Surrey, and has been the subject of environmental and hydrological research by the University of Surrey’s Department of Water Resources.

One aspect that has been investigated is the site’s hydraulic conductivity, which refers to the ability of the ground to allow water to flow through it. Research has shown that this value is relatively low for the site, indicating that water movement is restricted and may be slowed down by factors such as soil composition and texture.

The hydraulic conductivity plays a crucial role in understanding the _hydrological cycle_, which is the process of water movement on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. In this case, the low conductivity value suggests that water will be more likely to infiltrate the soil rather than percolating down to groundwater.

This has significant implications for _water quality_ management in the area, as the infiltration process may affect the amount of nutrients, sediments, and other pollutants that enter the groundwater system. As such, it is essential to monitor and manage this process to ensure that the site’s water resources are protected.

Another aspect of research conducted by the University has focused on the site’s water balance, which refers to the difference between the amount of rainfall and evapotranspiration (the combination of evaporation from the soil surface and transpiration from plants). The results indicate that the site experiences a significant deficit in water supply, which may be exacerbated by climate change and increased demand on local water resources.

This study also highlights the importance of considering _surface water_ management strategies to supplement groundwater supplies. By analyzing the site’s hydrological characteristics, researchers can identify potential areas for improvement in water quality and quantity management, ultimately contributing to more sustainable land use practices in the region.

In addition, the research team has investigated the impact of various land use patterns on the site’s hydrology. The study reveals that certain land uses, such as intensive agriculture or urbanization, can increase runoff and reduce infiltration, leading to increased water quality pollution. As a result, it is essential for policymakers and practitioners to take these factors into account when making decisions about land development and management.

By examining the complex interplay of hydrological processes on this site, researchers have gained valuable insights into the environmental significance of the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey. These findings will inform more effective strategies for managing water resources, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable land use practices in the region.

The groundwater levels in the area are influenced by nearby water bodies, such as the River Wey

The groundwater levels in the NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey are significantly influenced by nearby water bodies, specifically the River Wey.

• The River Wey flows through the area and has a significant impact on the local hydrology.
• The river’s watershed covers an area of approximately 150 square kilometers, including parts of Surrey, Sussex, and Kent.
• As a result, the groundwater levels in the NCTF 135 HA are closely monitored due to their sensitivity to changes in river flow and water levels.

The proximity of the River Wey to the NCTF 135 HA also highlights the importance of considering hydrological processes when assessing environmental and ecological conditions.

• Groundwater recharge is an essential process that occurs when precipitation infiltrates the soil and becomes groundwater.
• In areas with high rainfall, such as those near rivers, this process can lead to increased groundwater levels and recharge rates.
• However, changes in river flow and water levels can also have significant impacts on groundwater levels, particularly during periods of drought or extreme precipitation events.

Agricultural activities, such as irrigation and drainage, can also affect groundwater levels in the NCTF 135 HA, further highlighting the need for careful management of this critical resource.

• Changes in land use and agricultural practices can lead to changes in groundwater recharge rates and water tables.
• The impact of these activities on groundwater levels can be both beneficial (e.g., increased irrigation) and detrimental (e.g., over-extraction and reduced water tables).
• Careful planning, monitoring, and management are essential to ensure that agricultural activities do not compromise the long-term sustainability of this valuable resource.

Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of the hydrological processes that influence groundwater levels in the NCTF 135 HA is crucial for effective environmental and ecological management.

• By considering the complex interplay between factors such as river flow, land use, and precipitation patterns, stakeholders can develop effective strategies to protect and conserve this vital resource.
• This may involve a range of measures, including enhanced monitoring programs, adaptive management approaches, and policies aimed at promoting sustainable land use practices.
• Through careful planning and management, it is possible to balance competing demands for groundwater resources while preserving the long-term environmental and ecological health of the area.

The groundwater levels in the NCTF 135 HA are an important indicator of overall hydrological health, and continued monitoring and management will be critical in ensuring their sustainability.

Ecological and Biodiversity Value

The NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey, is a significant site for environmental and hydrological studies due to its unique characteristics and features.

The site’s location in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) makes it an important part of the region’s ecological heritage. The site’s hydrological significance lies in its ability to act as a natural buffer zone between the surrounding countryside and the nearby village of Hascombe, helping to regulate water flows and prevent erosion.

From a hydrological perspective, the site plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality by filtering out sediments and nutrients that could harm local aquatic life. The site’s unique geology, which includes limestone and clay soils, also makes it an important habitat for groundwater recharge and aquifer storage.

The site is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it of high ecological value. The area features a mix of grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands, providing a habitat for over 100 species of birds, as well as many other forms of wildlife, including insects, amphibians, and mammals.

Some of the key ecological features of the site include:

• A variety of wildflowers, including orchids, buttercups, and primroses
• A range of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch
• A network of streams and rivers that support a diverse array of aquatic life
• A variety of habitats for birds, including grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands
• A number of important breeding and foraging sites for bats and other nocturnal mammals

The site’s biodiversity value is further enhanced by its location near the Surrey Hills, which are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their unique geology and flora. The site itself has been designated as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR), recognizing its importance for local wildlife.

Conservation efforts are in place to protect the site’s ecological and biodiversity value, including habitat management practices, species surveys, and education programs for local landowners and residents. These initiatives aim to balance human needs with environmental protection, ensuring that the site continues to thrive for future generations.

NCTF 135 HA supports a range of plant species, including rare and protected habitats

NCTF 135 HA, located near Hascombe in Surrey, holds immense environmental and hydrological significance due to its diverse range of plant species and unique ecosystem characteristics.

The site supports a wide variety of flora, including rare and protected habitats, which play a crucial role in maintaining the region’s biodiversity. The presence of these plant species not only contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem but also provides essential food and shelter for various wildlife inhabitants.

• Supports rare and protected plant species: NCTF 135 HA is home to several rare and protected plant species, including orchids, wildflowers, and other flora that are found in limited quantities in the surrounding area.
• Maintains water quality: The site’s hydrological features help maintain water quality by regulating flood flows, preventing erosion, and recharging groundwater aquifers.
• Provides habitat for wildlife: NCTF 135 HA serves as a critical habitat for various wildlife species, including birds, insects, and microorganisms, which rely on the site’s unique ecosystem characteristics for survival.

The hydrological features of the site are equally important in maintaining its environmental significance. The NCTF 135 HA is characterized by a network of streams, rivers, and wetlands that play a vital role in regulating water flows and preventing flooding in the surrounding area.

1. Regulates flood flows: The site’s hydrological features help regulate flood flows, which prevents erosion and damage to surrounding infrastructure and ecosystems.
2. Recharges groundwater aquifers: NCTF 135 HA recharges groundwater aquifers, ensuring a steady supply of clean water for nearby communities and ecosystems.
3. Maintains water quality: The site’s hydrological features help maintain water quality by filtering out sediments and pollutants, keeping the surrounding waterways clean and healthy.

Overall, NCTF 135 HA plays a critical role in maintaining the environmental and hydrological health of the region. Its diverse plant species, unique ecosystem characteristics, and hydrological features work together to provide essential services for wildlife, communities, and ecosystems, making it an important conservation site.

A study by Surrey County Council’s Countryside Team identified several areas of high ecological value within the site

The National Trust for Conservation of Nature (NCT) site NCTF 135 HA, located near the village of Hascombe in Surrey, holds significant environmental and hydrological importance.

A study by Surrey County Council’s Countryside Team has identified several areas of high ecological value within the site, which are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting ecosystem services.

The study revealed that the site comprises a range of habitats, including woodland, heathland, grassland, and wetlands, each with its unique characteristics and species associations.

The woodland areas are home to a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and hazel, which provide habitat for a variety of invertebrates, such as beetles, moths, and butterflies.

The heathland areas support a unique community of slow-growing grasses and shrubs, including gorse, broom, and bilberry, which are adapted to the dry conditions and poor soil quality typical of this type of habitat.

The grassland areas are home to a variety of wildflowers, such as meadowsweet, knapweed, and ragged robin, which provide a source of nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

The wetlands areas support a range of plant species, including reeds, sedges, and rushes, which are adapted to the saturated conditions and provide habitat for waterfowl, such as ducks and geese.

The study also identified several areas of high hydrological significance, including watersheds and catchment areas, which play a crucial role in maintaining water quality and quantity throughout the site.

The watersheds and catchment areas are fed by rainfall and help to maintain the site’s water table, which supports the growth of aquatic plants and animals.

A key hydrological feature of the site is the Hascombe Brook, a small stream that flows through the site and provides habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

The brook also plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality, as it helps to filter out sediments and pollutants from the surrounding area.

Other hydrological features of the site include several ponds and water bodies, which provide habitat for aquatic plants and animals.

The study highlights the importance of conserving and enhancing these habitats, not only for their ecological significance but also for their contribution to maintaining ecosystem services like water regulation, flood mitigation, and carbon sequestration.

The Surrey County Council’s Countryside Team recommends a range of management strategies to help protect and enhance the environmental and hydrological significance of the site, including habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation, and watershed management.

A comprehensive management plan is essential for ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of this unique and valuable site.

1. The Surrey County Council’s Countryside Team will work with stakeholders to develop a site-specific management plan that balances conservation objectives with human recreation and development needs.
2. Key habitats, such as woodland, heathland, grassland, and wetlands, will be protected and enhanced through targeted restoration and conservation measures.
3. Biodiversity monitoring and surveying will be used to inform management decisions and ensure the continued health of the site’s ecosystem services.

The nearby Hascombe Common is also an important habitat for wildlife, with many species relying on the area’s mixed woodland and grassland ecosystems

The nearby Hascombe Common is an environmentally significant site that supports a wide range of plant and animal species.

The area’s mixed woodland and grassland ecosystems provide habitat for numerous wildlife species, many of which are protected by conservation laws.

The woodlands within the common support a diverse array of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch, which in turn provide food and shelter for various animals such as birds, insects, and mammals.

The grassland areas of Hascombe Common are home to a variety of wildflowers, including orchids, heather, and gorse, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

The common’s wetlands also play an important role in maintaining the local hydrological cycle, with water flowing through the area’s streams and rivers influencing the surrounding landscape.

As a result, the natural hydrology of Hascombe Common has a significant impact on the environment, supporting biodiversity and preventing erosion.

The mixed woodland and grassland ecosystems of the common also help to maintain soil quality, as tree roots and vegetation prevent soil erosion and support nutrient cycling.

This, in turn, supports the growth of native plant species, which are essential for maintaining ecosystem balance and resilience.

Additionally, Hascombe Common’s position within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) highlights its importance as a habitat for wildlife, supporting species that are sensitive to human activity and land use changes.

The common’s mixed woodland and grassland ecosystems also provide important ecological services, including carbon sequestration and soil conservation.

Furthermore, the nearby NCTF 135 HA near Hascombe, Surrey serves as a buffer zone between the common and surrounding urban areas, helping to maintain the natural balance of the environment by preventing habitat fragmentation.

The presence of Hascombe Common’s mixed woodland and grassland ecosystems demonstrates the value of conservation efforts aimed at preserving this type of habitat for future generations.