Title: Dart : first annual review : October 1999 (1999)
Author: Environment Agency South West
Document Type: Monograph
Abstract:
This plan covers the River Dart Catchment, an area of approximately 475 km2. The River Dart is formed from the East and West Dart Rivers that rise on South East Dartmoor. This is an upland granite mass that rises to over 600 m AOD. Dartmoor is an area of open moorland with high rainfall and acid, peaty soil. Much of it is used for extensive grazing by cattle, sheep and ponies. Many of the headwaters also provide valuable spawning grounds for salmonid fish. The perimeter of Dartmoor is typified by steep, undulating land with many of the valley sides comprising deciduous woodland. The area surrounding the open moorland is typified by small enclosuresand is mainly used for small-scale livestock farming. Field size becomes progressively larger as one moves away from the moorland. The River Dart eventually flows under the A38 Devon Expressway, close to Buckfastleigh. This not only marks the edge of Dartmoor National Park, but also serves as an approximate boundary between the granite mass and the relatively low lying but undulating area known as the South Hams. This area is noted for its rich red soils which support more intensive livestock and arable farming. A number of watercourses (River Hems, River Wash, Bidwell Brook and Am Brook) have their source in this area. The River Dart continues through this area to its tidal limitat Totnes. The steep valley sides result in a minimal floodplain. Two major tributaries join the River Dart in its estuary; these are the River Hems and the Harbourne River.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: 1999
Publication Place: Exeter
Subject Keywords: Local action plans (EA); Catchment management; Fish migration; River fisheries; Invasive species; Biodiversity; Rivers; Estuaries; Eutrophication
Geographic Keywords: Dart (Devon); South Devon catchment; Dartmoor
Extent: 35; + maps
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:503
Total file downloads: 62
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