The Middle Level Main Drain is a significant waterway in Cambridgeshire, England. It is a man-made channel that was constructed in the 17th century to drain the fens and marshes in the region. The Middle Level Main Drain is a part of the Middle Level Navigations, which is a network of waterways that connect the River Nene to the River Great Ouse. The Middle Level Main Drain is approximately 20 miles long and runs from the town of Whittlesey to the village of Mepal.
The Middle Level Main Drain plays a crucial role in the drainage of the Cambridgeshire fens. It is responsible for carrying water from the surrounding land and discharging it into the River Great Ouse. The water in the Middle Level Main Drain is controlled by a series of sluices and pumping stations, which regulate the flow of water and prevent flooding in the surrounding areas. The Middle Level Main Drain is also used for navigation, and it is an important route for commercial and leisure boats.
The Middle Level Main Drain is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, fish, and mammals. The waterway provides a habitat for species such as otters, water voles, and kingfishers. The surrounding wetlands are also important for breeding wading birds such as lapwings and redshanks. The Middle Level Main Drain is a valuable resource for both people and wildlife, and it is essential that it is managed and maintained to ensure its continued use and protection.