Reviving Local Wildlife
A £1.72 million project to restore chalk rivers in Hertfordshire has been successfully completed, aiming to boost habitats for native wildlife. The initiative, led by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and funded by the government’s Species Survival Fund in early 2024, relied on hundreds of volunteers to help rejuvenate the rivers. The work benefits species such as endangered water voles, brown trout, and kingfishers.
Protecting and Strengthening River Habitats
The project focused on making the chalk rivers more resilient, able to cope with both high and low water flows. Riverbeds were raised with gravel, wooden debris was added to provide shelter for fish, and invasive plants like Himalayan balsam were removed to prevent erosion and support native vegetation. Volunteers also worked to control non-native American mink populations, which have been harming water vole numbers.
Chalk Rivers of Global Importance
Chalk rivers are rare, with only 200 known worldwide and around 85% found in the UK. They are famous for supporting rich ecosystems and recreational fishing for trout and salmon. Early monitoring by the Wildlife Trusts shows positive signs of recovery in Hertfordshire, with wildlife and river health improving. Sarah Perry, river catchment coordinator, emphasized that while the two-year project has ended, efforts to protect and restore the county’s chalk rivers will continue.
