Restore Cambridge’s Chalk Streams: A Blueprint for Nature, Community, and Resilience
Imagine a city where wildlife thrives, people reconnect with nature, and crystal-clear streams flow through flourishing green corridors. That’s our vision for Cambridge’s chalk streams—ancient waterways that are vital for biodiversity, sustainable water resources, and urban well-being. But these precious streams are under threat, and we need your help to bring them back to life!
85% of the world's chalk streams are found in England, with a significant portion in southern and eastern regions, including Cambridge. These streams are part of a unique global ecosystem found only in a few places worldwide, including England, parts of France and New Zealand. We are very lucky!
Our plan? A groundbreaking combination of science, community action, and urban restoration to create resilient, flourishing chalk streams for generations to come.
Our Mission
Empower Citizen Scientists
We’ll train, equip and support local volunteers to collect valuable water quality data. By turning observations into action, we’ll build a clear picture of the challenges facing our chalk streams—and a compelling case for their restoration.
Restore Urban Chalk Streams
Guided by this data, we’ll transform struggling waterways into resilient urban chalk streams and riparian corridors. Think lush, green spaces teeming with wildlife and reconnected to Cambridge’s Nature Network, a partnership of local authorities, nature conservation charities and local farmers working collaboratively on landscape scale nature recovery.
Create Urban Havens for Wildlife and Well-being
By restoring these habitats, we’ll create vibrant urban wild spaces—oases for biodiversity and sanctuaries for people to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the natural world.
Inspire Business to Take Action
We’ll engage local businesses, showing how investing in the health and sustainability of chalk streams isn’t just good for nature—it’s good for the community and their bottom line.
Why It Matters
Cambridge’s chalk streams are living history, a lifeline for wildlife, and a crucial source of sustainable water. Yet, pollution, over-abstraction, and neglect have left them in crisis. Restoring them isn’t just about saving water—it’s about creating a greener, healthier, more resilient city.
Leave a Legacy That Will Be Celebrated
By joining us in this mission, your contribution will create a lasting impact. Together, we’ll leave a legacy of thriving nature, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future.
With Your Support
Together, we can:
- Build a legacy community of empowered citizen scientists driving real change.
- Revive Cambridge’s chalk streams and reconnect them to a thriving nature network.
- Inspire a ripple effect of urban restoration and environmental responsibility.
Let’s create a future where Cambridge’s chalk streams aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. Will you join us?
Your pledge will help restore these precious waterways, protect wildlife, and create a blueprint for resilient urban nature. Together, we’ll make history and celebrate your legacy as a champion for nature.
More information can be found here:
https://naturalcambridgeshire.org.uk/lnrs/greater-cambridge-chalk-stream-project/