Nature-based solutions to save Dorset’s rivers

The opportunity

Sparkling chalk streams and stunning river valleys twist and wind their way through Dorset National Landscape.

Home to the otter, beaver, water vole, wildfowl, wading birds and damselflies, these waterways are the beating heart of the county.

Despite providing essential ecosystem services like drinking water, irrigation, fish and food supply, flood protection and carbon sequestration, healthy rivers in the UK are almost non-existent. And Dorset is no exception.

Plenty of work needs to be done and after decades of conservation interventions and community engagement, we know what our rivers need.

Flooding is a particular problem for the people and businesses throughout Dorset’s catchment areas, caused by things like sediment run-off getting caught in flood defences and harbours, and the historic straightening and removal of trees leading to greater erosion and disconnection from the floodplain.

More awareness of the impacts of recreational and agricultural pressure on the rivers needs to be achieved.

Much of this work is underway – the only limiting factor? Resource.

That’s where you come in.

The projects

There are numerous projects happening throughout Dorset National Landscape in partnership with organisations like the Wildlife Trust, National Trust, Environment Agency, FWAG Southwest, and so many more.

This is a fantastic opportunity for one or more corporate partners to help protect and restore some of Britain’s most stunning rivers, protect rare and endangered species, and safeguard our communities for the future.

Areas that you can fund or get involved with include:

• Natural flood management (NFM)
  NFM techniques vary from building beaver-style leaky dams to raising riverbeds using soil and stones to reconnect floodplains and increase water storage, reducing downstream impacts of extra rainfall. The key is in the name: ‘natural’ flood management – materials already in the environment are used to help buffer it against extreme weather as well as the normal changes in dynamic river systems.
• Riparian management
  With gentle interventions, we can make sure that every element of the river system gets what it needs. From opening up canopy to providing more deadwood habitat, we can boost populations of insects and fish which support other wildlife and help to keep our water clean and thriving.
• Farmer and landowner engagement
  Run-off from farms is an ongoing challenge across the country, and we need to work together with our farmers to find solutions. We understand better than ever before how to balance the needs of our food systems and suppliers with the environment, and need the resources to spread that awareness and support. This is vital for the future of agriculture in the UK.
• Community engagement
  Communities in Dorset are rightfully proud of the iconic place they live, and are particularly engaged in its conservation. Fantastic projects are happening already such as Nature Buddies and FLAVOURS, but so much more needs to be done. Chat to the team about their creative ideas and how they could expand on those with your help.
• Community upskilling
  Fund the kit required to get more volunteers out surveying and monitoring our rivers. From teaching them ID skills to providing lab equipment, upskilling our community not only expands our reach and impact, but helps local people connect with their home and take ownership of its recovery and restoration.

Key outputs

• Healthy, thriving river systems that support, people, place, and wildlife.
• Resilient waterways that provide us with food and drinking water.
• Recreational areas where communities can spend time together, outdoors, recharging and reconnecting.
• Community engagement to boost the longevity of conservation work, pride in the places, and ownership of its health and wellbeing.
• Skills and jobs to boost the local economy.
• Volunteering and training opportunities for people from all walks of life throughout Dorset.

Interested in funding a river-based project in Dorset?