Reports
Over the last twenty or so years, a number of reports have been prepared that refer either directly or indirectly to this saline, part tidal lake.
As recently as 2018, Marine Climate Change Marine Partnerships identified saline lagoons as one of the most vulnerable habitats to climate change impacts: their physical, chemical and ecological characteristics all likely to be affected. The biggest climate change threats were seen as being sea-level rise and changes in seasonal temperature, storminess and rainfall patterns and the vulnerability of each lagoon to climate change should be assessed. The report described these lagoons as having considerable ability to adapt to climate change impacts provided there is space for adaptation with minimal human interference.
In 2010, ARTOO Marine Biology Consultants were contracted by Natural England to undertake a survey of the lake describing it of high conservation merit. Floating mats of green seaweed (Chaetomorpha linum) were prevalent and potential threats seen to be the unplanned discharge of sewage and clam-diggers. The central "channel" was noted as being 1.3m deep (believed to have been measured around low-water). Recreational boating appeared to offer no threat and the weir system below the bridge appeared to be fully functional. While some of the un-reinforced banks to the south and west showed signs of crumbling, the basic structure was considered to be stable. No mention was made of the gradual erosion of the mud islands nor their benefit to wildlife.
In 2019, Natural England described the fauna and flora of Little Anglesey Lake as the most diverse in south-east England.
In October 2020, Natural England undertook another survey and issued a paper discussing various issues.
In October 2022, local surveyor and resident Richard Baker-Jones, prepared a paper titled "The Future of Little Anglesey Lagoon (Stoke Lake)" addressing the issues of concern to local residents: this was published locally on Facebook and circulated to various interested bodies.
The extent of the SSSI