What makes a river healthy?

Do you know what signs to look for?

Come and learn about how you can spot the vital signs of a healthy river with Thames21 on Thursday 27th June for London Rivers Week 2024!

Trainee’s that complete this course will:

• have a greater understanding of what affects the health of a river beyond the visible litter pollution.
• take part in a site-scoping exercise and learn about how river restoration work has been improving the watercourse.
• find out how they can monitor river healthy by joining citizen science initiatives run by Thames21 and our partners.

This course offers an introduction into what makes a river healthy with a focus on the physical processes and structure (hydro-morphology) of a river and the functional habitat (ecology) that the river and its surrounding area provides.

You will gain an understanding of the importance of protecting the ecology and natural processes of a river system while learning about some of the human-induced pressures they face and what things you may be able to do to help.

The hands on, practical section of this course will be specific to the site where it is taking place and will include a river wade to really immerse (not literally!) yourself in the river.

Duration:

• Half a day in-person classroom based
• Half a day practical river wade to explore some of the vital signs of a healthy river

Fees:

This training is free and funded via Thames21 and EMPOWER

Location:

Location: Lewisham (Somewhere in the Ravensbourne Catchment)

Exact details to be confirmed soon.

Timings will be roughly 09:30 - 16:00

Contact:

To find out more, please contact Edwin Quast

edwin.quast@thames21.org.uk

07739 627 665

Please be aware that this course can be phsyically demanding for some, since we will be entering the water in waders during the second part of the day.

Please come prepared with comfortable and weather appropriate clothing and shoes, healthy snacks and plenty of water. Hot drinks and light refreshments provided, but please bring a packed lunch.