A Moray pond will be dredged to ensure it remains attractive for wildlife.
Concerns have been raised about the Mosset Burn in Forres due to build-ups of sediment as well as broken branches causing natural barriers.
Maintenance work will begin at the duck pond in the town next week to clear away debris to ensure the burn will remain free-flowing.
Council staff will dredge the water while also pruning overgrown bushes and removing trees with bead and broken branches in the water.
The water level in the pond will be dropped to allow access to the island for the work to be carried out and to remove sludge and debris that has built up.
Sections of the footpath in the area will also be upgraded while timber bridges will be treated with a preservative to make the wood last longer.
Talks have been held with Sepa ahead of the project to ensure the works are done in accordance with their guidance.
It is estimated that the work will be completed in the spring.
Grant Speed, Moray Council’s assistant lands and parks officer, explained the project would also help to ensure that birds would remain attracted to visiting the town centre haven.
He said: “Importantly, undertaking this work will improve the appearance of the area whilst maintaining it as a habitat for wildlife.”
