Conservation Work Overview
The Fenland Wildfowlers Association (FWA) is committed to the conservation and enhancement of wetland habitats and wildlife. Through a combination of practical habitat management, species monitoring, and collaboration with partner organisations, we actively support biodiversity across its managed areas. The FWA's land largely falls within Sites of Special Scientific Interest and we enjoy the best of relations with the statutory and voluntary conservation organisations.
Duck Nest Tubes
We install and maintain duck nest tubes to provide safe, elevated nesting sites for species such as mallard. These structures help reduce predation from ground-based predators and improve breeding success. Regular checks and maintenance ensure they remain effective and suitable for use each season.
WeBS Counts (Wetland Bird Survey)
Members participate in the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS), contributing to a nationally coordinated effort to monitor waterbird populations. Monthly counts provide valuable data on species distribution and population trends, helping inform conservation policy and habitat management at both local and national levels.
Duck Wing Survey
We support the Duck Wing Survey, a scientific initiative that analyses wings from harvested ducks. This data helps determine species, age ratios, and breeding success, providing insight into the health of wild populations and guiding sustainable management practices.
Pond Creation and Habitat Management
The association undertakes splash and pond creation and restoration projects to expand and improve wetland habitats. These ponds benefit a wide range of species, including wildfowl, amphibians, and invertebrates. Ongoing management ensures water quality, vegetation diversity, and ecological balance are maintained.
Songbird Nest Boxes
FWA installs and monitors nest boxes to support declining songbird populations. These boxes provide essential nesting opportunities in areas where natural cavities are limited. Monitoring also allows members to track breeding success and species use.
Insect Hotels
To support pollinators and other beneficial insects, FWA has constructed an insect hotel using natural and recycled materials. These structures provide shelter and breeding spaces, helping to boost insect diversity and, in turn, support wider ecosystem health.
Annual Foreshore Litter Pick
Every year during April FWA volunteers line out across the marsh and walk the 9 miles of Foreshore between the River’s Nene and Great Ouse collecting a wide range of plastic flotsam and litter that has washed up on the tides. Over the years we have collected dozens of trailer loads of this material.
BASC Wildlife Fund
The FWA has supported the BWF Wildlife Habitat Fund (The Duckstamp), right from its launch as the Wildlife Conservation Stamp Trust in 1991. Every FWA member purchases a £5 duck stamp as part of their membership, and so far, we have raised more than £55,000 which goes directly to fund habitat restoration across the Flyway.
Collaboration with Other Wildfowling Clubs
We work closely with neighbouring wildfowling clubs and conservation bodies to share knowledge, coordinate habitat management, and promote best practice. This collaborative approach strengthens conservation outcomes across the wider landscape and ensures a unified commitment to sustainable wildfowling and environmental stewardship.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of our management of the offshore breeding reserve, English Nature awarded the club the coveted SSSI award for Conservation and in the following year, the FWA were the winners of the Stanley Duncan Conservation Trophy in recognition of our overall contribution to the conservation of wetlands.
