Bathing in rivers

Given the current frequency of sewage discharges flowing into the local chalk streams it is important to understand the Rivers Colne, Chess and Gade are not designated bathing waters according to government guidance. Rivers are not sterile environments, and bacteria are widespread both upstream and downstream of the sewage works. You are able to monitor storm water discharges overflows on Thames Water’s Storm Discharge map.

If you choose to swim in rivers or canals, you do so at your own risk.

There are many factors to consider when interacting with rivers. Advice on how to enjoy rivers safely is available from The Rivers Trust and the Royal Life Saving Society UK.

/by

Help track the effects of weather and climate change on wildlife near you.

What effect has recent weather had on wildlife? Does climate change affect timings in nature? Join Nature’s Calendar and help scientists discover answers to these questions.

From leaf buds bursting to blackberries ripening, let us know what’s happening near you. You’ll be contributing to a long biological record that dates back as far as 1736.

Start recording

/by
,

No Mow May

We’ve lost approximately 97% of flower-rich meadows since the 1930’s and with them gone are vital food needed by pollinators, like bees and butterflies.

But your lawn can help! A healthy lawn with some long grass and wildflowers benefits wildlife, tackles pollution and can even lock away carbon below ground. With over 20 million gardens in the UK, even the smallest grassy patches add up to a significant proportion of our land which, if managed properly, can deliver enormous gains for nature, communities and the climate.

This is Plantlife calls for people to get involved with #NoMowMay every year, and let wild plants get a head start on the summer.

Provide a feast for pollinators, tackle pollution, reduce urban heat extremes, and lock away atmospheric carbon below ground.

Register Your lawn 

/by