An evidence-based study mapping the decline in freshwater ponds in the Severn Vale catchment in the UK between 1900 and 2019

Abstract Freshwater ponds have long been an overlooked biodiversity store and changing types of land use the management practices has led to a steady decline in pond numbers. Establishing regional extent loss is first step identifying key areas for conservation action. This study calculated Severn Vale catchment UK since 1900. Identification location surrounding on historic contemporary maps enabled comparison total number, density distance between present day ponds. 57.7% 1900 were lost declined from 7.3 4.5 km −2 2019. resulted 24.6 m increase average Land was important factor determining loss. Although 2019 highest are rural areas, 62.3% agricultural settings (arable or pasture). Our results highlight significant experienced provide valuable baseline pondscape restoration. The methods described widely applicable other regions either with history environment that could sustain them.