We all know that our rivers are in trouble – but rather than turn our backs on them, Trent Rivers Trust is combining positive action with awareness of the issues, encouraging everyone to take #FiveForRivers this summer. There’s even the chance to win some splashing prizes for taking part!
Between 19 July and 19 August, simply download the Love Your River activity pack and you can choose from a range of activities aimed at increasing awareness of river health and enjoying spending time by the water – such as identifying native species, spotting signs of pollution or identifying the river minibeasts that can be an indicator of good water quality. Most of the actions are free easy to do and you can even win prizes for taking part, with a small patio pond and river reads to enjoy by your favourite watercourse.
Find out more by visiting: Take Five For Rivers
Matt Easter, CEO, Trent Rivers Trust says:
We know that people cherish their local river and want to protect it. Taking Five for Rivers aims to make rivers more accessible. People can choose to have fun, develop their knowledge and hopefully feel more confident in looking after their local watercourses going forward.
We also want people to get a taste of the big solutions we’re working on across the Trent region, be that making our landscapes and cities spongier or bringing back lost habitats. For us, it’s about small actions of river kindness and by doing this work collectively, we’re hoping to create a ripple effect, bringing rivers into the lives of as many people as possible.
With only 14% of rivers in good overall conditions, we know our rivers are in trouble. It is vital we continue to connect to them, learn about them, and spend time near them – whatever this might look like for you.
Vanessa Sumpmann, Communications Officer, Trent Rivers Trust says:
Rivers are a source of joy, a playground for curiosity and places to create memories. Being around them positively impacts our mental health and, we believe that in turn, we can also positively impact our rivers’ wellbeing. As part of this challenge, we want people to feel empowered in taking positive action.
The campaign is part of our greater ambition to involve and connect communities to their river. Currently, we’re working on a source-to-sea footpath following the river Trent and a range of educational programmes, showcasing how working with nature supports our rivers and the communities and wildlife that depend on them.
