A Review of the Role of Agricultural Ponds in England: Climate change and biodiversity risks and opportunities.
Abstract
This report examines the evidence base concerning agricultural ponds and the opportunities they offer for enhancing biodiversity and potential carbon sequestration to mitigate climate change. In summary, the presence of ponds in an agricultural landscape can significantly benefit local biodiversity. Ponds experience a carbon flux of storage and emission, and further long-term research is needed to fully comprehend their role in carbon sequestration for climate mitigation purposes. Before management, a pond should be surveyed, and its role within the broader pondscape should be considered.