Distribution of freshwaters in Great Britain

The object of this study is to estimate from the examination of
maps the numbers, distribution and size of the lakes, reservoirs
and rivers in Great Britain. The study was undertaken to provide
a framework for the systematic analysis of data on freshwater
ecosystems. A coded checklist of animals ocCurring in
freshwater in the British Isles has already been published
(Maitland, 1977).
The detailed procedures used in the map analyses and checks
on the effects of map scale on which waters are included are
considered separately for standing and running waters. The
overall extent and distribution of lakes, reservoirs and rivers are
then reviewed in the third chapter. Almost all statistical data
relating to water in Britain are tabulated in terms of Hydrometric
Areas (Water Resources Board, 1974) and this practice has
been followed here (see Figure 1).
We would like to thank Miss Zana Juppenplatz and Mr Mervin
Hutchinson for their valuable assistance with the map searches