Ecus Archaeology was commissioned by the Discover Brightwater Landscape Partnership to carry out evaluation of two areas of land where it is proposed to improve wetland areas by creating new ponds and channels. Geophysical surveys were undertaken at both sites, alongside a Desk-Based Assessment. Depending upon the results, Durham County Council Archaeology Section may request further evaluation works. The geophysical survey at the two sites, undertaken across eight areas totalling c.42ha, identified a range of features including infilled field ditches, palaeochannels of the River Skerne, possible pits and traces of former agricultural furrows. Some of these could be equated to features portrayed on historic mapping while others remained undated.