YDRT News

From Stream to Screen: Our Stop-Motion Rivers Film - by Catherine Mason

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:30:59 GMT

Introducing Rivers4Life

We are now more than halfway through the second year of our three-year National Lottery Heritage funded Rivers4Life programme, enabling us to work with schools and community groups along the rivers in our catchment, collaborating with artists to inspire children and local communities to learn more about rivers and their wildlife.

One of the highlights of our recent Rivers4Life exhibition, which brought the environmental science of rivers to life through art, was a brilliant two-minute stop-motion film created by Years 3 and 4 at Applegarth Primary School, Northallerton entitled ‘ Everyone Loves Rivers ’. Think Wallace and Gromit − but 2D and all about rivers!

The good news is that everyone can now watch this creative and informative film via our website and the button below – but first let me share the story of how it was made.

Bringing rivers to life: frame by frame

I had already worked with Applegarth Primary School, visiting with our Rivers2U mobile education van, and had seen how these sessions inspired pupils and teachers. So, when I suggested involving the school in creating a stop-motion film, they loved the idea! It fitted perfectly with the Years 3 and 4 cross-curricular project including art, design & technology and computing, and linked previous learning on rivers with social responsibilities for the environment.

Finn Varney , a creative nature communicator and filmmaker seemed like the perfect match for the project, and so a first step was to meet with Finn and between us agree what length and type of film was possible, and what learning goals this would deliver for the pupils.

The finished film had to be engaging, helping pupils and audiences learn more about river wildlife and the challenges faced by our rivers – as well as understanding how stop-motion films are made, along with gaining experience of the creative process.

After discussing the story we wanted to tell, and the key messages we hoped the audience would take away, Finn wrote the script. Back in school, he hosted a workshop to show the children exactly what a stop-motion animation is, and explained how a stop-motion film is made.

What is stop-motion animation?

Start with a storyboard – a set of drawings used to tell a story – pictorially showing the sequence of events you want to tie together. But how to make the characters move?

Finn had the ingenious idea of giving every child a little ‘flick book’, demonstrating that if you drew a slightly different image on the corner of each page, when ‘flicked’ it shows movement and motion! The children loved it and each created their own.

With a classroom transformed into a film studio, and armed with the script, backgrounds, scene dressings and character templates, we were ready to run the workshops and start filming!

Making the stars of the film

From an otter and a heron to a toothbrush and frying pans, a colourful cast of characters and objects provided the ‘moving parts’ of the finished film.

To cater for different abilities, Finn created a range of character templates, giving pupils the choice of working from a pre-drawn design or creating their own from scratch.

Working in small groups of 6 to 8 pupils, each pupil took responsibility for bringing their own character or object to life. Under direction, the children carefully positioned their characters on the background and then took turns to take a series of photos to capture each frame, before moving their character ever so slightly ready for the next shot. Each group repeated this process up to 50 times to create just a few seconds of movement.

This filming process required patience, precision and plenty of concentration − and the pupils did a fantastic job. To complete each section, they also recorded the narration, adding their own voices to the finished film.

The finished film

After three full days of filming, working with 14 groups, each carefully capturing around 50 individual photos – thanks to Finn’s skillful editing, the frames were transformed into a brilliant two-minute stop-motion animation.

The finished film brings home the importance of caring for our rivers − for nature, wildlife and ourselves − and shows how we can all play a part. Just as importantly, the project gave the children first-hand experience of stop-motion filmmaking, the attention to detail it demands, and the extraordinary amount of work that goes into producing even a few minutes of film.

Apparently, it takes Aardman Animation around two weeks to create just 10 seconds of footage for Wallace and Gromit . After our workshops, pupils from Year 3 and 4 at Applegarth Primary School and I, now understand why!

Click on the button below to view the film:

Delivering Natural Flood Management - by Matthew Lyall

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 11:37:08 GMT

Giving water and nature more space

For the first time in more than 300 years, Brompton Beck on the Hauxwell Estate in Swaledale is winding through its landscape again, with new ponds and scrapes holding the water back, reducing flood risk and creating new habitats for wildlife.

The transformation from the drained fields and straightened channel we encountered two years ago is remarkable − and it was great to recently celebrate this with the partners and local community who’ve been part of the journey, recognising what we’ve collectively achieved.

Relationship building

For me, one of the biggest lessons from this project has been that successful natural flood management is as much about working with people, as it is about working with water and the landscape.

Before we could determine what might be possible on the ground, we needed to build a strong relationship with the landowner and the estate’s farm and conservation manager to understand their aspirations.

Farming is changing, but gaining agreement for managing land differently, particularly when you’re talking about allowing areas to become wetter, requires trust. Initially the scheme aspired to install nature based natural flood management features in just one field, but as things developed and confidence grew, that became four.

Over many conversations, we developed a shared vision for Brompton Beck and began to plan how the land could work differently for water, wildlife and the farm itself.

We also sought advice from lots of other organisations, including Wild Trout Trust , Yorkshire Wildlife Trust , Yorkshire Water , The Freshwater Habitats Trust and other river trusts − with the Defra funded Ousewem programme, offering the means of delivering this.

Giving Brompton Beck its bends back

Historically, drainage and straightened watercourses were designed to get water off the land as quickly as possible to keep it drier for livestock grazing. But when lots of water moves rapidly through a catchment, it can contribute to higher flood higher flood peaks downstream and also a land more susceptible to drought in the summer.

So, rather than moving water away as quickly as possible, how could we hold more of it in the land?

One of the biggest changes we’ve made has been to the beck itself. We’ve re-meandered around 380 metres, replacing the totally straight, incised channel with a longer and more natural route. We also reconnected it to its floodplain by making the channel shallower and wider so water can easily spill out onto the surrounding land.

Across the project area there’s also been more than 50 bunded scrapes, ponds and other backwater features created. During heavy rainfall, these provide lots of different places for water to collect, spread out and slow down − rather than just rushing straight downstream.

More than just flood management

What has been particularly exciting for me has been seeing how quickly the newly developed areas have adapted and regenerated to support new wildlife.

The area’s gone from being an intensively managed, uniform improved grassland to a landscape with muddy margins, shallow and deeper pools, gravelly channels, new hedgerows and a range of wetland habitats.

We gave nature a helping hand by planting the new ponds with native species including flag iris, marsh marigold and bogbean − but it wasn’t long before wildlife began finding its own way in.

Lapwing and curlew are already using the site and we’re finding newts, water beetles and other invertebrates in the ponds. One of my favourite discoveries has been stonewort appearing naturally. Stonewort is associated with clean, good-quality water, so seeing it establish without us putting it there is really encouraging.

Changing the wider landscape

We’ve also looked beyond the beck and ponds at how the whole site functions.

New hedgerows and trees have been planted, barriers to fish passage have been removed, and old fence lines have come out, opening up wildlife corridors across the site.

The estate is now also using a combination of ‘cut and remove’ to reduce nutrients on the land, alongside conservation grazing with a small herd of Belted Galloway cattle.

Two years on…

The Hauxwell Estate now has a landscape that can hold more water during heavy rainfall, helping to slow flows through the catchment, reducing downstream flood peaks in the village of Hunton by up to 25%*.

At the same time, all the interventions will help the estate become more resilient to drought and have created valuable new habitats and given nature space to regenerate.

For me, Hauxwell demonstrates what’s possible when you have an engaged landowner, a passionate land manager, and the time to develop a project together rather than arriving with a predetermined solution.

This project has been delivered by Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust through the Ousewem programme, working alongside the landowner, City of York Council, North Yorkshire Council, Natural England and JBA, with funding through Defra’s Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme.

* Modelling also indicates that peak flows reaching Hunton could be reduced by approximately 25% during a 1-in-10-year rainfall event .

Improving Soil Resilience - by Heather Challis

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 14:56:53 GMT

The importance of healthy soils

With dryer summers and warmer, wetter winters now predictable and prevalent, building resilience into soils is key for both farm productivity and river health.

Wet winters leave soils waterlogged and vulnerable to compaction, whilst dry summers make it harder for water and nutrients to move through the soil profile. The results of this is poorer drainage, reduced nutrient availability, weaker root growth and – ultimately, lower yields.

I know this first hand, as in addition to my role at Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust I also manage a sheep and beef cattle farm in Nidderdale.

Why does soil compaction matter?

Compacted soil has fewer spaces for air and water to move through it, which restricts root growth, forcing roots sideways rather than downwards, in search of water and nutrients.

This is particularly important during dry weather, as if roots can't penetrate deeper into the soil, grass has less access to the moisture stored further down the soil profile.

Good soil aeration helps restore the movement of air and water. It also provides better conditions for roots and the wider community of soil organisms that contribute to healthy soils, which also helps make grassland more resilient during periods of drought.

Turning soil science into farm benefits

I recently held two successful soil aeration events in the Wharfe and Nidd catchments, as part of a wider programme of events across The Calder, Aire, East Yorkshire and the Don catchment.

The events featured renowned soil expert Charlie Morgan, who helped translate the science of soil health into practical benefits for farm businesses.

One of his key messages was that healthier, better-structured soils can help farmers keep livestock grazing outside for longer.

Keeping cattle housed comes at a significant cost. At around £5 per head per day for dairy cattle and £3 per head per day for beef cattle , even a small extension to the grazing season can make a substantial difference to profit margins.

For example, extending grazing by two weeks at either end of the normal grazing period could mean an additional 28 days outside. For a 100-cow dairy herd, that's potentially 2,800 additional cow-days at grass .

*Actual savings will depend on the farm system, forage availability, weather and other costs.

Getting the basics right: pH matters

Aeration is only part of the picture. Charlie also highlighted the importance of maintaining the right soil pH.

For grassland, a pH of around 6.5 is generally the target. If soils are too acidic, plants can struggle to access essential nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Applying lime where appropriate can help raise soil pH and improve nutrient availability. Good soil structure and the right pH need to work together though − there is little benefit in improving root access if plants cannot efficiently take up the nutrients they need.

Building drought resilience with deeper roots

The plants growing also play an important role in improving soil resilience. Herbal leys include deeper-rooting species such as chicory, lucerne and sainfoin access moisture and nutrients deeper in the soil profile than many shallow-rooted species, helping grassland remain productive during dry periods.

Deeper roots can also contribute organic matter and carbon to the soil, supporting soil structure which also helps soils hold more water.

 Don't forget soil biology!

Healthy soil isn't just about its physical structure − soil biology is essential too.

Earthworms, fungi and other organisms support soil structure, nutrient recycling and plant growth. Aerating compacted soils can create better conditions for this biology to thrive by improving the oxygenation of soil.

Aeration in action

Our events also offered farmers the opportunity to see different aeration machinery working in the field.

Aerworx demonstrated its aerator which operates at speed − around 17–20 km/h. This machine creates a shattering effect through the soil, helping compacted ground to crumble and open up.

The Panbuster from Agri-Supply works on a similar principle but at a slower speed, using three legs to penetrate the soil and break up compacted pans, i.e. the dense layers within a soil profile that can restrict the movement of roots, air and water.

Both machines were showcased on a very dry, compacted field with subsequent improvements to the soil structure clearly visible.

Benefits of well-aerated soil

In a nutshell, improving soil aeration brings the following benefits:

Improved drainage and structure
Improved movement of air and water
Improved nutrient availability , supporting stronger root growth when soil pH is appropriate
Increased soil biology , including earthworms and beneficial fungi
Deeper, stronger root growth , helping plants access water during dry periods
Greater resilience to drought
Longer grazing periods , potentially reducing the amount of time livestock need to be housed

Missed the event?

Even if you missed our soil aeration events, I can still help you identify opportunities to improve soil health, farm resilience and environmental outcomes for your farm.

There may also be opportunities for further support through relevant funding and grant schemes.

 Get in touch with me at: heather.challis@ydrt.co.uk to find out more and/or arrange your free farm sustainability review.

You can also follow our bespoke farming Facebook page: Roots Returns Farmers Group

Skeeby Beck – A River Reconnected – by Sarah Lonsdale

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 10:46:18 GMT

A stream struggling to recover

A major pollution incident arising from the release of farm slurry into a watercourse in 2023, killing hundreds of fish and other river wildlife led to my involvement in this rewarding project.

The first step was to understand the full impact of this on the stream. With support from the Wild Trout Trust , we used electro-fishing surveys to monitor the affected stretch of Skeeby Beck, which runs through Gilling West and Skeeby, above Richmond.

The surveys showed that the surviving fish were struggling to repopulate the catchment. One of the major contributing factors was the old concrete ford on Skeeby Beck. Fords, weirs and culverts can easily become part of a river’s landscape, but they can have a significant impact on the movement and health of a watercourse. They can prevent fish and other aquatic life from reaching different parts of a river for breeding, refuge and food. They can also hold water back, slowing its flow and causing fine sediment to settle on the riverbed, smothering gravels and the invertebrates that live there.

The ford at Skeeby Beck was a particularly significant barrier. It diverted the channel through four pipes that fish could not pass through, and covered gravels that provided important feeding habitat.

The farmer and landowner supported removing the ford, provided access to their land for heavy farm and plant machinery could be maintained. Following our initial conversations in February 2024, we secured funding for this complex project from the Environment Agency and later, the Great Yorkshire Rivers project.

Identifying the needs of the stream

Once funding was in place, we carried out extensive ground investigation surveys to understand the composition of the bankside soils. This information was vital for the design of the replacement bridge.

We also carried out topographical surveys of the land and river channel, and conducted modelling, to understand how water flows through the site and how the channel behaves during flooding. Further fish surveys and river habitat condition assessments helped us understand the fish populations and their habitat needs. These surveys provided valuable baseline data which will allow us to monitor the impact of removing the barrier, and measure how the stream responds over the coming years.

Putting the plans into action

Once the location and design of the bridge had been finalised, it was time to make the plans a reality.

It was exciting to put on my hard hat, welcome the excavator on site, and finally see the concrete ford broken up, revealing the gravels that had been buried beneath it for years.

The bridge foundations and abutments were then installed, followed by the transverse steel beams and reinforced decking.

After more than two years of planning, it was astonishing to see the project come together so quickly. The old bridge, which was too weak to use, was removed at the same time.

Re-vegetating the riverbanks

The final stage has been to reseed the newly exposed riverbanks with local, native wildflowers and plants. Gilling West Fly Fishers and Richmond & District Anglers, as well as local volunteers − led by Martha our lead volunteer, have been a fantastic help with the grass and wildflower re-seeding.

The reseeded banks will provide valuable habitat for pollinators such as bees, whilst also helping to stabilise them ahead of the winter months and protect them from erosion during higher flows.

Ongoing monitoring

Drone footage has been incredibly useful throughout the project, helping us to plan, deliver and monitor the work. It will also continue to help us understand how Skeeby Beck responds now that the barrier has been removed and the stream is free to reclaim its natural course through the catchment.

Martha has also set up up-stream and down-stream − of the former ford − riverfly monitoring sites so we can review the benefits of its removal for invertebrates, as well as fish. The local angling groups also did some water sampling at the ford, adding another layer of data for us to review the project’s success against.

We look forward to sharing more images of its progress and updates on the fish and invertebrate populations next year.

Find out more about our other barrier removal and mitigation projects via the button below:

September 2026 News

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 20:32:34 GMT

Read our latest update here!

Rainwater or Wastewater? The Importance of Outfall Surveys

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:35:34 GMT

What are combined sewer outfalls?

With growing concern around sewage pollution in UK rivers, identifying misconnected drains and polluted surface water outfalls has become increasingly important in protecting our local waterways and wildlife.

Combined sewer outfalls (CSOs) are part of the UK’s drainage infrastructure and are designed to manage excess surface water from our roads and pavements during periods of heavy rainfall and re-direct rainwater away to nearby rivers to prevent flooding in towns.

Yet, due to our old, complex sewage system, misconnections exist − connecting polluting wastewater and sewage to the surface water drainage system.

Why are outfall surveys important?

When household appliances, extensions and even new housing developments are incorrectly connected to surface water drains instead of the foul sewer network, untreated wastewater, detergents, cleaning chemicals and sewage directly enters rivers and streams.

With funding now available to help Rivers Trusts like ours carry out detailed outfall surveys we are able to assess and map polluted outfalls in key areas to identify errors and potential pollution sources.

Surveying Crimple Beck in Harrogate

To better understand how we carry out outfall mapping, our Communications and Marketing Officer, Victoria Benn joined Jennifer Lee, YDRT’s Volunteering and Engagement Officer, and Project Manager, Sarah Lonsdale to survey more than 20 outfalls along Crimple Beck in Harrogate, a tributary of the River Nidd.

Equipped with mapping software, water testing kits, wellies, and protective gloves, the team spent the day locating and testing outfalls for visible and chemical signs of pollution.

Whilst trained volunteers often support this work, the number of outfalls located on private land and in heavily built up, residential zones in this area meant it was more appropriate for this particular survey to be undertaken by Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust staff – but do email volunteering@ydrt.co.uk if you would like to take responsibility for surveying a stretch of stream or river close to you!

How outfall monitoring works

Outfall surveys can only be carried out during dry weather conditions − usually after at least 24 hours without rainfall. This is because surface water outfalls should only discharge during wet weather. If water is still flowing during dry conditions, it may indicate a pollution issue or wastewater misconnection requiring further investigation.

Locating outfalls can involve navigating overgrown sections of riverbank, and traversing up the actual riverbed itself. Once identified, visual signs such as sewage fungus, discoloured water, or excessive algal growth can indicate an elevated nutrient content, which often signifies pollution.

Testing river water quality

Water samples are collected directly from flowing outfalls and tested on site for phosphate and ammonia − two key indicators of water pollution.

High phosphate readings can suggest the presence of household detergents from appliances such as washing machines, whilst ammonia can indicate sewage contamination.

A handheld testing meter provides precise readings; using a colorimeter, reagents mixed with a sample change colour depending on the concentration of either ammonia or phosphate (the deeper the colour, the higher the concentration). For example:

A blue colour change indicates high phosphate levels, often associated with household cleaning products.
A yellow colour change indicates the presence of faecal contamination.

Results are then uploaded directly to Yorkshire Water’s reporting system, allowing any polluted outfalls to be immediately flagged for further investigation.

Where issues are identified, resolution can involve tracing the source of contamination using techniques such as dye testing or targeted investigations at suspected connection points. This work is often complex, time-consuming, and costly, but essential for protecting river health.

Protecting rivers from pollution

Pollution from wastewater and misconnections can significantly damage river ecosystems.

Excessive nutrients reduces oxygen levels in rivers, harming fish and aquatic wildlife.

High phosphate and nitrate levels can also trigger algal blooms, which further reduce oxygen as they decompose. Concentrations of over 0.5mg/l are considered elevated. Ammonia is also highly toxic to aquatic life, particularly in concentrations exceeding 2.0mg/l.

Untreated sewage can additionally introduce bacteria, pharmaceuticals, and harmful chemicals into waterways, affecting both environmental and public health.

Although identifying and resolving misconnections can be complex and expensive, outfall surveys are a vital tool in improving river water quality and protecting rivers across the region for future generations.

We also have a reel of the team in action conducting an outfall survey – head over to our YouTube channel to learn more.

July 2026 News

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 11:44:29 GMT

Read our latest update here!

Why Rivers Matter: Reflections from the Rivers4Life Exhibition

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:00:18 GMT

Where else can you find ‘beaver-nibbled wood chips’ displayed alongside 3D models of crayfish, stunning artwork, and colourful bunting created by local primary school children?

At our Rivers4Life exhibition at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes, visitors can explore all this and more. The exhibition brings together a fascinating mix of nature, creativity and conservation, from Marie Hartley’s original wood engraving blocks and works by Yorkshire Dales artists James McKay and Sally Zaranko, to interactive activities including river wildlife dress-up clothes, bird and mammal footprint casts to discover in the sand, inspiring photography and the latest updates on our river restoration projects.

With so much to see and experience, it was fitting that the Trust’s Patron, Lord Swinton (Mark Cunliffe-Lister of the Swinton Estate), took time out of his busy schedule to officially open the exhibition. He was joined by project partners, supporters, community contributors and some of our dedicated staff and volunteers.

A celebration of Yorkshire Dales rivers, wildlife and communities

Running to 27 September, Rivers4Life tells the story of our Yorkshire Dales rivers − their beauty, the challenges they face and the solutions being delivered through our conservation work.

Speaking at the preview event, Lord Swinton praised the exhibition’s creativity and community impact:

“I am genuinely inspired by the Rivers4Life exhibition. It brings together an extraordinary range of artistic contributions from diverse communities and the myriad ways rivers shape our lives, from our individual connections to our collective commitment to restore and protect our rivers for future generations.

“The exhibition is a powerful and thought-provoking celebration of community, creativity and environmental stewardship, and I wish it every success.”

Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Rivers4Life represents the culmination of the first phase of a three-year project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund supporting educational and artistic partnerships with schools, artists, community groups and environmental organisations.

Eight-year-old Harper, one of the pupils who contributed to the exhibition, said:

“I think it is wonderful. I like all the different games and information that will inspire people to save all the animals in the river.”

Nine-year-old Zara added:

“It was very good because they are teaching you about wildlife. I like the little statues that inspire you and help you learn why you shouldn’t litter.”

Supporting the future of Yorkshire Dales rivers

The exhibition also highlights our wider conservation work, including Natural Flood Management (NFM) programmes helping protect communities and wildlife, projects to improve fish passage to support healthy river ecosystems, and how we are reducing pollution from historic metal mining .

Visitors can also view the winning entries from our year-long photography competition, capturing the region’s rivers, wildlife and changing landscapes through the seasons.

Learn more at:

Growing Ideas: Our Visit to a Regenerative Agriculture Festival

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:31:06 GMT

Groundswell is a regenerative agriculture event hosted by farmers, for farmers – all taking place on a farm!

Now in its 10th year, Groundswell has grown from just a few hundred people attending to more than 10,000, including appearances from senior ministers and leading figures in agriculture, science and policy.

It is not your traditional country show. This is an event about how we can farm differently – making a profit whilst still protecting and enhancing the environment, with good land stewardship and soil health at its heart. It’s about bringing the joy back into farming, celebrating traditional skills and marrying them with modern technology and science to make farms profitable, resilient and buzzing with biodiversity.

Regenerative agriculture is farming with these principles at its core:

Minimise soil disturbance
Keep the soil covered
Maintain living roots in the soil
Maximise plant diversity
Integrate livestock

These principles are brought to life at the Festival through hundreds of talks, demonstrations and safaris across 19 different venues, including tents, field trials, ponds, hedges, exhibition stands and machinery demonstrations.

Our staff attended more than 30 different sessions !

These covered:

Agroforestry and silvopasture

Different ways to protect young trees

How to look after ancient trees

The benefits of hedgerows and how best to manage them

Restoring floodplain meadows

Integrating grazing animals into woodlands

Regenerating pasture with sheep

Rebuilding the British wool sector

Managing upland permanent pasture

How livestock use shade and water

Doing dairying differently

The importance of dung beetles

How farms across the UK and Europe responded to drought

The impact of agriculture on rivers

Deer management; no-fence collars

Building soil health

The value of hefted sheep flocks

The role of tenant farmers

Bringing private capital into environmental schemes

The role of blended finance - amongst many other topics!

We also heard important announcements from Emma Reynolds at Defra regarding the future of agri-environment schemes and from Katie White, Minister for Climate.

We spoke to potential funders such as Environment Bank, organisations leading the way in environmental modelling such as the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, and technology providers including Land App and Soilmentor.

We looked at a range of plastic-free tree guards and supported our colleagues on the national Rivers Trust stand, providing cover while some went to watch the footy − and we also gave a talk on funding for Natural Flood Management (NFM).

We came back full of new knowledge and ideas, inspired and invigorated to carry on our mission of restoring our rivers, working with farmers and land managers, and helping make our catchments fit for the future.

Our Impact Report 2025-2026

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:44:59 GMT

Want to know what we've achieved in the last year?

Our 2025–2026 Impact Report h ighlights and celebrates the progress we've made protect ing and restor ing t he rivers and catchments of the Swale, Ure, Nidd, Ouse and Wharfe .

Inside, you'll discover how we've planted 13,271 trees, improved 27km of river, and assessed 160 water bodies – alongside many more highlights from the past year.

The Report also showcases our work with farmers, landowners and local communities, demonstrating the collective impact of our partnerships across the region.

Join Our Team

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 10:38:27 GMT

We are now seeking a new Treasurer Trustee

Help shape the future of Yorkshire rivers. We are seeking a Treasurer and Trustee to provide strategic financial leadership and governance for the Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust. This is an opportunity to use your financial expertise to support a thriving environmental charity dedicated to improving water quality, biodiversity and river habitats across the Yorkshire Dales.

Key highlights of the role:

Provide strategic financial oversight as a member of the Board of Trustees.
Chair the Finance Committee and Remuneration Committee, helping ensure strong governance and financial sustainability.
Work closely with the Chair, CEO and Finance Manager to support budgeting, financial planning, risk management and compliance.
Contribute to the growth and long-term success of a respected environmental charity making a tangible difference to rivers and communities.

Time commitment: Approximately 4–8 hours per month, including Board meetings, committee meetings and periodic financial review.

Location: Hybrid, with attendance at meetings and key Trust events.

Term: Initial three-year appointment.

For full details, responsibilities and application information, please see role description .

Applications to: jamie.roberts@ydrt.co.uk by 12 noon, 7 August 2026 .

Where Art Meets Action

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:35:10 GMT

This year’s Open Day literally had something for everyone...

Tea and cake for the hungry and weary. Our superlative Rivers4Life exhibition for anyone wanting to lose themselves in the wonders of nature and others’ creative responses to it. Two talks for the more academically minded. A guided walk of the River Ure in the sunshine to see our restoration work, along with a fun Riverfly demonstration. And, for those seeking an even bigger immersion, a fabulous community theatre performance (with a brilliant live folk score) under the June evening sky in the Dales Countryside Museum’s open-air amphitheatre.

Apologies if you missed it – but many of the day’s highlights continue to be available (until 27 September!)…from the soundscape of a freshwater snail gurgling away, stunning wildlife dress up clothes, to Applegarth Primary School’s utterly brilliant stop-frame short animation film.

There is even one further performance of Tributaries left to run at Ripon Workhouse Museum on 4 July by Fellfoss Theatre supported by the acclaimed The Brothers Gillespie .

Here’s what some of those who came along had to say about the day:

“What a comprehensive exhibition and what an awful lot of work has gone into producing it! The way it all linked together like a seamless flow was so impressive. And the fact that you’ve involved so many children and young people in it was marvellous – as they are the future custodians of our rivers. The whole experience is really enjoyable.”

Sheila Simms, supporter and member of Yoredale Natural History Group

“I really enjoyed the outdoor theatre performance − its fusion of beautiful folk elements and immersive acting really brought the river and its history to life. The poetry of Thomas Maude was captured by some creative performances and a well-crafted story. Loved it – a huge well done to all those involved!”

Issy Preston, supporter

“ An interesting exhibition. I thought the information about diffuse metal mine pollution was really insightful. It was also great to read more about the Trust’s Invasive Non-Native Species mapping and what’s been done to identify future priority areas – which I look forward to volunteering for!”

Mark Booth, volunteer

The Rivers4Life project is supported and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund . For further information visit:

Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust Open Day 2026 at the Rivers4Life Exhibition

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:07:29 GMT

Discover the Rivers4Life Exhibition

Join us for a special Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust Open Day on Saturday 27 June, taking place within our Rivers4Life exhibition at the Dales Countryside Museum , Hawes, from 1pm.

This unique event offers visitors the chance to explore our family-friendly exhibition celebrating the rivers, wildlife and catchments of the Yorkshire Dales, while also taking part in guided walks, live demonstrations and expert talks showcasing our conservation work across the region.

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund , Rivers4Life runs daily from 6 June to 27 September 2026, open 10am–4pm, seven days a week.

The exhibition features creative work produced through workshops with Yorkshire Dales schools and community groups, including residents from a Richmond care home and refugee groups in Catterick and Ripon. Visitors can also enjoy the winning entries from our photography competition, highlighting the beauty of Yorkshire Dales rivers, catchments and wildlife throughout the seasons.

Rivers4Life also explores the Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust’s wider conservation work, including:

· Natural Flood Management (NFM)

· River restoration and habitat improvement

· Fish passage and barrier removal projects

· Tackling pollution from historic metal mining

· I nvasive species management

· Habitat restoration initiatives

Open Day Programme

 1pm–3pm: Guided Learning Walk and Riverfly Demonstration

Join our team for a guided walk around Hawes to learn about local conservation projects, including Natural Flood Management schemes. The walk will also feature a live Riverfly monitoring demonstration.

2pm: Natural Flood Management Case Studies

If you are unable to join the walk, visit the museum meeting room to discover real-world examples of Natural Flood Management projects and their benefits for local communities and river ecosystems.

3.15pm: Metal Mine Pollution Presentation

Learn how historic metal mining continues to impact Yorkshire Dales rivers through heavy metal pollution, and discover the work being undertaken to address and remediate these environmental challenges.

4pm: River Barriers Presentation

Find out how structures such as weirs, fords and culverts can affect river health and wildlife, particularly migratory fish species, and hear about ongoing projects to improve river connectivity.

Special performance: Tributaries

The day concludes with an outdoor performance of Tributaries at 5pm, a Ripon and Wensleydale community theatre production.

This engaging performance explores the spirit of the River Ure, bringing to life its history, folklore and enduring importance to the communities that have lived along its banks through the ages.

Please note: Booking for Tributaries is separate from Open Day activities.

Additional performances will take place:

• 28 June 2026 – Dales Countryside Museum

• 4 July 2026 – Ripon Workhouse Museum

Book Your Place

Places for the guided walk, presentations and Tributaries performances can be booked using the buttons below:

May 2026 News

Tue, 26 May 2026 20:03:43 GMT

Read our latest update here!

Removing Barriers to Fish Passage in Our Catchments

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:20:33 GMT

Restoring rivers by improving fish passage is a vital part of enhancing our river environment. One of the newest members of the YDRT team, Kate Colledge, is leading this important work.

Kate joined as a Project Manager, with funding support from Great Yorkshire Rivers , which is a collaboration of Yorkshire Water, the Environment Agency, the Rivers Trust and other partners. As both a Chartered Civil Engineer and Chartered Environmentalist, she brings a wealth of expertise to the role which focuses on identifying and prioritising barriers within our rivers which prevent fish from moving freely through our rivers and streams.

Why Fish Passage Matters

Healthy rivers depend on connectivity. Migratory fish such as salmon rely on being able to migrate upstream to spawn, accessing a variety of habitats throughout their lifecycle. However, man-made structures like weirs, culverts, sluices and fords can interrupt this natural movement. These barriers have also limited habitat for non-migratory fish species too.

Across the Yorkshire Dales, many of these structures are part of the region’s cultural heritage. Whilst they are valued as part of the local vernacular, they can also have a significant ecological impact. Kate’s role involves carefully assessing whether these barriers should be:

Left as they are
Modified or mitigated
Completely removed

Balancing environmental benefits with wider considerations, such as current barrier purpose, heritage value and flood risk is a key part of Kate’s work.

Surveying the River Wharfe

On a windswept morning in March, I joined Kate for a series of initial ‘walkover’ surveys along the upper River Wharfe, near Kettlewell and Buckden.

Over recent months, Kate has been progressing with a dataset of almost 2000 potential barriers within the YDRT catchment. One of her first priorities is to verify this data both as a desk based study and out in the field. This verification will help identify which barriers should be considered further with regards to improvements for fish passage.

The River Wharfe catchment alone contains hundreds of confirmed barriers . Each one is being assessed using a bespoke scoring matrix designed to highlight where interventions could deliver the greatest fish passage benefits while balancing other considerations. Testing this matrix in the field made for a fascinating introduction to the project.

Findings from Kettlewell and Buckden

Kettlewell’s nineteenth-century cotton mill once harnessed the natural gradient of the beck, adding several small weirs. Today, whilst some of these structures may hinder fish migration, they sit alongside natural waterfalls and heavily modified channels. Because of this, and the high cost and complexity of potential mitigation, these barriers were assessed as low priority.

Similarly, the weir within Buckden Beck, located east of the Buck Inn on the footpath to Kettlewell, was also considered low priority, forming an additional step within a striking series of waterfalls, limiting the benefit that intervention would provide.

Looking Ahead

As this project progresses it will be exciting to see which barriers are prioritised for removal or modification. Each successful intervention has the potential to reconnect habitats and support the return of fish to areas they may not have reached for centuries.

As part of the wider Great Yorkshire Rivers partnership, this project represents a significant step in improving river health in the Yorkshire Dales , and I look forward to sharing updates as it develops.

Soil Sampling to Support Water Quality Improvement

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:09:45 GMT

Why this work matters

There has been considerable media attention recently about the impact of heavy metals − particularly lead − on our watercourses and, ultimately, on human health. There is, in fact, no safe level of lead exposure . Even low concentrations can be harmful, especially to children. It is therefore no surprise that the UK Government has set a target to halve the length of rivers polluted by harmful metals from abandoned metal mines by 2038 , and YDRT is proud to be involved in projects working to deliver that ambition.

The hidden legacy of metal mining

Across the Yorkshire Dales, the legacy of the 18th and 19th century lead mining industry − something of a regional ‘mini goldrush’ − remains etched into the landscape. Scheduled monuments such as chimneys, buildings and mine levels still stand as striking reminders of this industrial past. Less visible, but equally significant, are the countless barren spoil heaps and drainage tunnels (adits) scattered across hillsides – features responsible for the heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and zinc , entering our watercourses.

“The problem is that historic mining activities have left behind loose, unvegetated, heavy metal-rich mine waste,” explains YDRT Project Manager, Ellen Shields. “When it rains, these metals are washed into nearby becks and streams, contaminating water that flows downstream to rivers and reservoirs, and also causing harm to aquatic ecosystems and wildlife.”

A day in the field soil sampling

Keen to understand the scale of the challenge, I joined Ellen at one of the Trust’s sites to assist with soil sampling − a crucial part of the early testing and analysis stage of any metal mine remediation project. The data gathered will help identify priority areas and inform decisions about the most appropriate restoration techniques.

With the sun shining and the last remnants of weekend snow still clinging to the ground, it was the perfect day to observe how water moves through the spoil heaps, with the meltwaters carving countless small gullies through the loose material, rushing under and across the site before making their way to the beck in the valley bottom. It was a vivid demonstration of how easily contaminants can be mobilised.

How sampling works

Prior to my visit, Ellen had divided the site into ten prominent spoil heaps . Our task was to collect between three and five soil samples from each heap for laboratory analysis, testing for heavy metal concentrations. Every sample was also precisely geo-referenced to build an accurate contamination map of the site.

Even to my untrained eye, the variation between spoil heaps was striking, with differences in colour, texture and composition abundantly clear, as was the spoils varying ability to support even sparse lichens or hardy metal-tolerant plants.

A fragile landscape

The fragility of the mine waste was also evident, with its loose, unstable composition making it highly vulnerable to erosion from water, wind and even footfall.

On the same day, Historic England was also on-site mapping archaeological features, as any future remediation work must strike a careful balance between reducing environmental harm whilst protecting the significant industrial heritage that gives this landscape its distinctive character.

Looking ahead

Addressing centuries-old pollution is no small task. Yet projects like this demonstrate how science, conservation and heritage management can work together to restore water quality whilst respecting the past.

Soil sampling may seem like a small first step, but it provides the essential evidence base needed to design effective, lasting solutions for our rivers and their communities downstream.

March 2026 News

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:27:35 GMT

Read our latest update here!

How Digital Imaging Drone Technology Supports River Restoration

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:40:48 GMT

Discover how we use one technology in myriad ways to support some very different river and catchment improvement, restoration and remediation projects

Digital imaging drone technology is transforming the way river restoration projects are planned, delivered and monitored. Once primarily used for military reconnaissance, modern drones are lightweight, digitally stabilised and often AI-assisted, making them powerful tools for environmental conservation. Today, they are widely used by organisations ranging from emergency services to river trusts, like ours.

We use drone surveys to support a wide range of river and catchment restoration work, including Natural Flood Management (NFM) , fish passage barrier removal , and the remediation of pollution from historic metal mining . Drone technology saves time and money, improves accuracy, and enables more effective long-term monitoring. It also helps us communicate project outcomes to partners, funders, stakeholders and the public. In some cases modelling software allows us to virtually test different restoration scenarios before any work takes place.

Using Drones for Natural Flood Management Projects

Patrick Lane – Assistant Project Officer

“I work on an NFM project that uses drones alongside advanced modelling and analysis tools.

“When we begin work in a new area, we first carry out a drone survey to record baseline conditions. This allows us to assess watercourses, wet areas and key landscape features. Once we’ve identified suitable NFM interventions − such as scrapes, ponds, leaky dams, wetlands, hedgerows or reconnecting a watercourse to its floodplain, we create a fixed video of the site. This maps an exact flight path with precise GPS coordinates, essential for accurately monitoring change over time.

“Understanding how water moves across a site is especially important for landowners and partners. Drone data allows us to show how NFM measures increases water storage, improves infiltration and helps ‘slow the flow’. We combine drone footage with impact modelling software to clearly demonstrate how interventions are changing hydrology and reducing flood risk.”

Drone Surveys for Mine Pollution Remediation

Ellen Shields – Senior Project Officer

“Drone technology plays a vital role in addressing the legacy of historic lead mining. Our drone surveys generate thousands of high-resolution images, which are stitched together to create an orthomosaic. This produces a highly detailed, geo-referenced map of a large area, allowing restoration interventions to be planned with pinpoint accuracy.

“Specialist drone surveys also help us analyse site topography as well as the distribution and health of vegetation. This type of multi-spectral environmental data is useful for identifying areas of high-risk erosion. Data analysis of drone footage can also help us to assess riverbed stability, erosion and sediment movement – information that is critical when designing effective remediation measures.

“Repeating drone surveys over time is a brilliant way to monitor progress, track vegetation recovery and determine areas that may require further work.”

Improving Fish Passage and River Connectivity with Drones

Sarah Lonsdale – Project Manager

“One of my projects involves removing a ford, which can be significant barriers to fish migration, since many fish species rely on free movement between upper and lower catchments of a watercourse to access suitable spawning habitats.

“Drone footage has been invaluable in this project. It provides a clear aerial view of the beck and its hydrological features, including flow paths and channel structure. This allows us to understand exactly how water moves through the landscape and within the river channel itself. Drones also help us assess catchment characteristics such as riparian tree cover, channel modifications, barriers and areas of straightening.

“In this case, drone imagery has clearly shown how the ford is impounding water upstream. After the barrier is removed, we’ll carry out follow-up drone surveys to assess improvements in river hydrology. We’ll be looking for more diverse flow patterns, helping to create habitat niches, transport sediment and improve gravel quality − all essential for healthy fish spawning.”

If you are aware of a barrier to fish migration (such as a weir, culvert, ford or sluice) on a watercourse on your land within the catchments of the Swale, Ure, Nidd, Ouse or Wharfe and would like us to assess it, please email: enquiries@ydrt.co.uk

January 2026 News

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:33:56 GMT

Read our latest update here!

Shortlist of Best Sites for River Restoration

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:23:27 GMT

Mapping technology has enabled us to identify and prioritise catchments across the region that would benefit most from nature-based solutions (NbS) to help restore river health and mitigate flooding. Using software developed by national river restoration charity, The Rivers Trust, and applying it to 161 waterbodies in the catchments of the rivers Swale, Ure, Nidd, Ouse and Wharfe, we have been able to select 16 water bodies for their ability to deliver multiple benefits for rivers and nature.

YDRT project officer Lucy Hyde said: “The mapping software has allowed us to review rivers and catchments against some key criteria including nutrient runoff from farming activities and silt erosion – both of which contribute extensively to rural waterbody pollution. We also looked for opportunities to increase riparian shading, which helps to keep rivers cool during increasingly warm summers and provides valuable habitats that benefit fish populations.

“Interventions such as riparian tree planting or wetland creation not only intercepts nutrient and silt runoff through complex root structures, stabilising banks from further erosion, but also creates new habitats or connects existing habitats helping create ‘wildlife corridors’ for invertebrates, small mammals and birds.”

Following the completion of the mapping phase, we are now looking to work in partnership with existing organisations, landowners, farmers, and other local stakeholders to deliver on the ground solutions. If you are interested in finding out more about this email: lucy.hyde@ydrt.co.uk

The priority waterbodies are:

Cotterdale Beck from Source to River Ure;

Riccall Dam Catchment (trib of Ouse);

Hebden Beck Catchment (trib of Wharfe);

Oak Beck Catchment (trib of Nidd);

Snaizeholme Beck from Source to Widdale Beck;

Widdale Beck from Source to Snaizeholme Beck;

Hambleton Beck/Ings Beck Catch (trib of Wharfe);

Barden Beck Catchment (trib of Wharfe);

Sand Beck from Source to River Swale;

Park Gill Beck from Source to River Wharfe;

Skeeby/Holme/Dalton Beck from Source to River Swale

Brough Beck/Scotton Beck from Source to River Swale;

River Skirfare from Source to Heselden Beck;

River Ure from Source to Widdale Beck;

Willow Beck Catchment (trib of Wiske);

River Wiske from Source to the Stell

You can view the entire map below:

November 2025 News

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:16:28 GMT

Read our latest update here!

Operation Outfall – The State of Harrogate’s Oak and Bilton Becks

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:35:16 GMT

Our major survey of Harrogate’s Oak and Bilton becks has uncovered that several misconnections in the drainage network are adding highly polluting discharges to the waters of both waterways.

Read the full report to find out more about this important Outfall Safari survey – and watch the short info-reel to learn more about outfalls and how you can look after your local one.

For those wanting to learn about the results and ask any questions in person, please come along to our public event on Wednesday 26 November, 6-8pm at St Peters Church, Harrogate.

Book your place by clicking on the button below:

September 2025 News

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 21:00:47 GMT

Read our latest update here!

August 2025 News

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:47:10 GMT

Read our 2024/25 Impact Report

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:05:48 GMT

July 2025 News

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 21:58:37 GMT

June 2025 News

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 20:51:02 GMT

May 2025 News

Fri, 30 May 2025 20:50:33 GMT