Rivers Run Through Us – new River Axe nature recovery project
A new project aimed at improving the health of the River Axe and its catchment is set to get underway early next year, thanks to a grant of more than £250,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, (made possible by National Lottery Players) and over £60,000 from the Environment Agency’s Water Environment Improvement Fund.
The project, named ‘Rivers Run Through Us’, will focus on involving communities in nature restoration in the River Axe, its tributaries, and surrounding valleys.
Rivers Run Through Us will be led by Blackdown Hills National Landscape and in partnership with Dorset and East Devon National Landscapes, with additional funding from the Upper Axe Landscape Recovery Project and the project’s partners.
The River Axe, once renowned for its sparkling trout streams, has faced significant environmental challenges in recent years. Rivers Run Through Us will address these issues with a collaborative approach, emphasising the interconnectedness of water, soil, and people. The aim is to empower local communities to monitor river health and collaborate with organisations to tackle issues that are identified. In addition, the project aims to support farmers and land managers in safeguarding their natural resources and building mutually beneficial relationships with the wider community. New educational programs will be developed to engage people with the river and its heritage.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded development funding of £250,630 to Blackdown Hills National Landscape to help the Rivers Run Through Us project progress its plans and later to apply for a full National Lottery grant of £1,237,391. This exciting development phase will involve teaming up with community groups, schools and farmers, trying out activities, and putting together action plans for key habitats and species.
