Issues NOT being Addressed by the Our Rivers Campaign
The Our Rivers Campaign is focussing on changes that Government, the Environment Agency and others can bring about through full and proper implementation of the Water Framework Directive.
The work undertaken by the Environment Agency so far tells us that over 80% of our Rivers are not in the condition they should be and much has to be done to improve them. Key pressures such as physical changes to the hydrology of rivers, diffuse agricultural pollution and sedimentation are causing the majority of rivers to fail.
By working together through the Our Rivers Campaign our organisations can ensure that a single powerful voice will be heard highlighting the key issues impacting on the rivers you care about.
However, the Water Framework Directive doesn’t encompass everything that might concern you. For example:
Navigation and access – Like all of us who care about our rivers boaters, swimmers, canoeists etc share a common interest in a water environment that is clean, safe and full of wildlife to enjoy. However, the WFD does not specifically promote these activities and does require they are carried out without damaging river ecology.
So while we would welcome comments about the condition of rivers that limit peoples enjoyment disputes or campaigns over access for navigation/recreation are best addressed to the specific interest groups (e.g. http://www.riversaccess.org/ ).
Predation by Native Species – The WFD measures the quality of rivers by comparing it to natural conditions. As such predation by native animals like cormorants and otters are not considered although pressures that exacerbate losses e.g. loss of riparian habitat structure, abstraction that leaves fish isolated in pools/slow moving water etc. should be considered.
The impacts of Non-native or “alien” species such as American Crayfish are an issue that should be addressed.
Angling – Angling is a hugely popular sport and for most people a healthy river full of wildlife is part of the attraction of fishing. Anglers are an important part of the informal network that keeps an eye on our rivers and through groups like The Angling Trust have been a powerful force for cleaning up pollution.
While the ecological requirements of the WFD might have some implications for fishery management the plans will not address questions of animal welfare.
More Information?
If you require more information about any of the above issues please contact any of the Our Rivers Organisations separately.
