Helen Fitzmaurice

About me

My interest in freshwater ecosystems developed during my masters, where I focused on freshwater biodiversity and river restoration. My dissertation explored the UK’s first ‘Stage 0’ site, where I examined the impacts of this novel restoration technique in developing wetland ecosystems, macroinvertebrate communities and biodiversity changes. Before returning to academia, I worked in the renewable energy sector. I led teams and managed projects focused on driving the UK’s net-zero transition. During my Community Energy Apprenticeship, I collaborated with local energy groups developing local solar energy projects.

I have volunteered with various conservation charities in the UK and Borneo focusing on various biological systems and conservation actions. I am excited to be involved with the WWT’s approach to the twinned climate and biodiversity crises.

My project

My PhD research explores how small wetland ecosystems can benefit both nature and people. The project aims to identify and articulate the socio-ecological and cross-sectoral values associated with small wetlands in agricultural landscapes. I hope to examine how small wetlands deliver a range of ecosystem services or natures contributions to people (NCP) and how agri-environmental policies shape their management and ecological health. I aim to understand the factors that encourage or hinder conservation action for landowners, managers and other key stakeholders.

I will also be exploring how ecosystem services are translated across farmed landscapes and the spatial factors that determine where these benefits emerge. By analysing historical changes in the wider “pond-scape,” I aim to understand how restoring connectivity between wetlands and other waterscapes can enhance ecological networks and influence the delivery of these services or contributions.

Experience and interests

• Macroinvertebrate sampling and identification
• Statistical analysis and graphical data presentation in R and SPSS
• Project management, stakeholder engagement and focus groups
• Humans role as both as custodians of the land and a fundamental part of nature
• Traditional knowledges, alternative ways of living and spiritual connections to land
• Community, land based living and the impact on nature and wildlife