Test Upper and Middle Operational Catchment

About

This catchment covers the Test from its source at Ashe, down-stream to Mottisfont, before the confluence with the Dun. Throughout its length, it flows down a gentle gradient through a broad flood plain flanked by mainly arable farmland with some grazing on the valley floor. The Test gains water from underlying chalk and several ephemeral tributaries. It is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, along with a section of the Dever, and is a highly managed and modified system, with many sections divided into main river and carriers, which historically served a network of mills and water meadow systems.