Past Events: 2009

Last updated: November 29, 2009.

The chalk-stream River Test, Mottisfont, Hampshire, England

Photo: Looking closely at the chalk-stream River Test, Hampshire.

This is an archive of past events. For current events, please see our Forthcoming events page.

May

Scotland: Tweed Angling Fair: 2-3 May 2009.
Cornwall: The Fal River Festival: 23-30 May 2009.
Northern Ireland: Clic Sargent Dragonboat Race. Belfast Boat Club, Lagan Watersports Centre, 10.00-16.00, 31 May 2009.

June

London: The 3-rivers clean-up: "A week-long focused volunteer effort to clean-up and remove Himalayan Balsam from the Ravensbourne River system, flowing through Lewisham, Greenwich and Bromley." Runs from 30 May-7 June.
Derbyshire: Wild Week on Ponds: A series of pond-related events happening around Derby during the first week of June.
Sussex: Walk around Barcombe Mills: Eastbourne, 2 June 2009. "A delightful two-three mile walk through a mixture of fields, disused railway track and riverbanks looking out for a wealth of flowers, butterflies and birds."
Devon: River Coly Work Party: Devon, 3 June 2009. "Pulling Himalayan balsam along the tributary of the River Coly. Contact for meeting point. Organised by East Devon Devon Wildlife Trust Local Group."
London: Wandle Valley Festival: 6-7 June. Fun sport education and heritage along the 13 mile River Wandle all weekend, mostly free!
Dorset: Tales from the River Bank: Wool, 6 June 2009, 10am-12.30pm. "A circular walk by the River Frome and through old water meadows to reveal wetland wildlife and water level management. Waterproof footwear advisable. Meet at Wool Bridge, opposite the Texaco Garage, Wool."
Yorkshire: Calder Valley River Day: Events throughout Calder Valley, Saturday 6 June 2009.
Hampshire: The Itchen Navigation Project in Action at Shawford: Shawford, Winchester, 6 June 2009, 10am-12pm. "Join Ali Morse, the Wildlife Trust's Itchen Navigation Project Manager, for a walk along the River Itchen at Shawford to see the local wildlife and to learn what the project is planning to do on this stretch of the Navigation."
Yorkshire: The Industrial Heritage of the Don Gorge: Sun, 7th June 2009, Meet: Boat Landing in Lower Sprotbrough, cost two pounds. "During a 2-3 hour walk, the industrial development of the Gorge and its surroundings will be outlined by an interseting and knowledgeable leader. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome."
Bristol: Your chance to have a say on managing the risks of flooding and Coastal erosion along the Severn Estuary: Clevedon: 8 June 2009; Penarth: 10 June 2009. Public exhibition to explain future flood and coastal management plans.
Gloucestershire: Environment Agency faces the future at Cheltenham Science Festival: Cheltenham, Glos: 3-7 June 2009. Several talks and public events about water, environmental issues, and climate change.
Norfolk: Norfolk Anglers Conservation Association (NACA) Bawburgh Open Day-2009: Bawburgh Lakes, Bawburgh near Norwich. Sunday 7 June 2009, 10.00am-4.30pm: "This free event is the largest of its kind in the region, and this year hosts 13 qualified Angling coaches along with a host of other activities and demonstrations, to raise awarenessawareness of Angling and the environment."
Dorset: Walking In A Watery Wonderland: Walk, Tadnoll & Winfrith. Thurs 11 June - 10.30am-12.30pm. Organized by Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Lincolnshire: Insect Identification Workshop: Thurlby Fen nature reserve, 10am - 3pm. Learning for adults with Dr David Sheppard and the Bourne Area Group. Limited places so advance booking is essential.
Bristol: Severn Estuary Walk: 11am-4pm, 14 June 2009. Organized by Avon Wildlife Trust.
Hampshire: A Titchfield Canal Walk: 14 June 2009, 2pm, Titchfield (Map ref.SU 543 055). "A guided enjoyable walk led by Richard Hedley, from the Titchfield Car Park to the Meon Shore. Distance 2 miles."
National: Course fishing season begins: 16 June 2009.
Brecon Beacons: Dragons & Damsels: National Park Visitors Centre, Libanus. This is a joint event with the Brecon Beacons National Park. Search the ponds of Mynydd Illtyd Common for Dragonflies and Damselflies. Starts 6pm.
Herefordshire: River Wye Preservation Trust 2009 Summer Walk: Friday 19th June at 4.30 p.m. at Turnastone Court Farm.
Devon: Devon Wildlife Trust Festival 2009: Cathedral Green, Exeter, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 20th June 2009.
Dorset: Surfers Against Sewage: The Gathering: Kimmeridge Bay, near Swanage, 10am, Sat 20th June, International Surfing Day. Paddle out to demonstrate support for campaign against MoD restrictions on surfing at the Bench.
Oxfordshire: Summer walk at Chimney Meadows: Sunday 21 June 2009. Time: 9.45am-12pm, nr Bampton, Oxon. Join the Chimney Meadows staff for a pleasant walk through the developing flower meadows and wetland along the banks of the River Thames.
Essex: Chigborough Lakes reserve: Sunday 21 June 2009. Time: 10am. A visit to this worked-out gravel pit nature reserve led by the warden Phil Luke. Possibly orchids, Kingfishers, Little Egrets and more. Meet in the reserve car park.
Gloucestershire: River Frome Duck Race: Sunday 21 June 2009. Part of the Chipping Sodbury Festival. Meet at Jubilee Park, Quarry Road, Chipping Sodbury 2pm. Bring a picnic.
Oxfordshire: College Lake public meeting: Tuesday 23 June 2009. BBOWT would like to welcome all those interested in College Lake Nature Reserve to join them for an onsite public meeting on Tuesday 23rd June 2009, 7-9 p.m: "This is an opportunity for you to find out more about the current and future developments taking place and how you can get more involved through volunteering."
Gloucestershire: Upper Thames Protection Society AGM: Sunday 21 June 2009. 7.30pm 24th June at Cricklade Town Hall Annexe. Keith Lead, Technical Specialist, Flood Risk Management in the Environment Agency will talk on "Flood Risk Management in the Upper Thames Catchment"
Dorset: Freshwater Invertebrate Identification Workshop: Thurs 25 June 2009. Training Course/Workshop, Brooklands Farm, Forston, Dorchester. Organized by Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Cumbria: River Kent Himalayan balsam removal work party: Regular event. Thursday, 25 June 2009, 9:30am - 2:30pm. The work will involve bending and carrying bunches of pulled plants, which are generally very easy to pull up. Please bring suitable outdoor clothing, including Wellingtons or boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, a sun hat and gardening gloves, and a packed lunch. Location: Meet at the entrance to Kentrigg, off Burneside Road, GR: SD 513 940
Hampshire: Pond Dipping for Grown Ups: 27 June 2009, 2-4pm, Blashford Lakes, Ringwood.(Map ref. SU 151 079) "Join us at Blashford Lakes Wildlife Reserve for an opportunity to explore pond and river and discover their fascinating wildlife, without having to "share" the net with the children. Microscopes, identification guides and Blashford Lakes staff will be on hand to help you identify your catch."
Lincolnshire: Dragon or Damsel?: 27 June 2009, Far Ings Nature Reserve, 9.30am - 12noon: "An introduction to identifying dragonflies and damselflies. This is followed by a walk round Far Ings NNR to see how many species you can identify." Booking is essential on 01652 637055.
London (Fulham): Thames Foreshore Clean-up: 27 June 2009. TIME: 12noon - 3pm LOCATION: Thames foreshore, meet at the SW6 Lounge at Fulham Football Club, Stevenage Road, SW6 6PP. "Come along and join Thames21 to clean-up the Thames near Fulham Football Club, near Bishop's Park."
Sussex: Slime-ology: 28 June 2009, Arundel Wetland Centre: "The delicious opportunity for the young to get intimate with SLIME. Learn about the importance of slime in nature and have a go at making some of your own. £5.00 per child with 1 free adult to workshop per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult."

July

Staffordshire: Waterways Wander: 6.45pm. Walk led by Val Riley. Meet at Ladderedge County Park car park (off Sunnyhills Road, Barnfields, Leek). Strong footwear essential.
Warwickshire: Stratford River Festival: 3-5 July 2009.
Dorset: Dragonflies For Beginners: Sat 4 July, 10am - 4pm. Training Course/Workshop, Furzebrook Village Hall, Wareham. "A rare opportunity to learn about dragonfly ecology & identification with field visits to Kilwood & nearby Heath." Organized by Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Cumbria: Himalayan balsam removal conservation work party: Saturday, 04 July 2009, 10:30am - 3:30pm. Join Cumbria Wildlife Trust for the second of two work parties, led by Juliet Henderson, removing the invasive Himalayan balsam on the banks of the River Derwent.
Cheshire: One Earth Festival: Sun 5 July, 11am - 5pm. Bickley Hall Farm, Free. A colourful family event. There will be opportunities to explore the varied habitats at Bickley Hall Farm such as ponds, streams, grassland, hedgerows and the wildlife garden.
Oxfordshire: Evening walk at Chimney Meadows, Tuesday 7 July 2009, Time: 6.45pm-9pm, nr Bampton, Oxon (Chimney Meadows is 250 hectares of wildlife rich land along the banks of the River Thames.)
Powys, Wales: Reserves Work Party: Vicarage Meadows & Cae Pwll y Bo, Tuesday 7 July 2009, Abergwesyn - bracken control in wildflower meadows near the River Irfon. 10.15am - 3.30pm.
Buckinghamshire: Chiltern Society Walk: Wed 8 July."A riverside/beechwood walk on part of the Chess Valley and Chiltern Heritage Trail: Latimer Village, Neptune waterfall and Chenies Manor."
Staffordshire: Walk along the Trent and Mersey Canal: 10.00am. Walk from Shobnall Leisure Complex, Burton-on-Trent (post code DE14 2BB) along the Trent and Mersey canal to Branston Water Park (post code DE14 3HD) led by local wildlife expert Brian George and East Staffordshire’s Senior Park Ranger Lawrence Oates.
Suffolk: Steam, Electric & Boating Festival at Sudbury. 11-12 July. Boating activities and demonstrations, steam miniatures & models, various stalls & attractions. River Stour Trust.
London (Fulham): Crabtree Wharf Clean-up: 11 July 2009. TIME: 11.30am - 2.00pm. LOCATION: Fulham foreshore, SW6 6LE. "Come along and join Thames21 to clean-up the Thames foreshore in Fulham."
London (Barnes): Barn Elms21 Thames foreshore Clean-up: 12 July 2009.TIME: 12.15pm - 2.45pm. LOCATION: Barnes foreshore, downstream of Hammersmith Bridge, SW15 1NB."Come along and join Thames21 to clean-up the Thames foreshore near Barnes."
Worcestershire: Evesham River Festival: 10-12 July 2009.
Cornwall: Walk from Lostwithiel to Fowey : 14 July 2009. A walk led by John Pegg. Meet 10 am, Coulson Park, Lostwithiel.
Yorkshire: River Don: Habitat plans on show at Fishlake: 14 July 2009. North Doncaster residents are being invited to an event later this month to get an update on the Environment Agency's plans to create a valuable freshwater wetland area next to the River Don at Fishlake. Environment Agency staff will be at Fishlake Village Hall on Tuesday 14 July from 2pm until 7pm to show residents the detailed designs for the project.
Yorkshire: York Festival of Rivers: 11-26 July 2009.
Sussex: Sussex Ouse Task Force - Conservation work & river restoration: 19 July 2009. See website for details.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Monday 20 July. Newland Hall Fishery, Roxwell, near Chelmsford.
Cambridgeshire: Drop-in for residents interested in flood defence works in Wisbech: 20 July 2009. Wisbech residents and businesses wanting to find out more about the proposed flood defence work along the South Brink are invited to a drop-in session on the Monday 20 July 2009 where they will be able to find out about how the work is progressing, view detailed plans for the next phase of the project (due to start in October) and an outline of the work due to take place after that. Venue: The National Trust’s Peckover House, Reed Barn, 5pm-8pm.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Thursday 23 July. Puddledock Farm Fishery, Upminster.
UK: National Fishing Week: 24 July-2nd August 2009.
Staffordshire: Wildplay in the park - Washlands, Burton on Trent: Open access session aimed at 8-14 year olds. Helping to reconnect children to their natural environment through their local green spaces. 4pm - 6pm. Booking not required. Meet outside Burton Library.
Kent: Maidstone River Festival: 24-25 July 2009.
Middlesex: Colne Valley Festival: 25-26 July 2009. "Come to Denham Country Park for the Colne Valley Festival between 11am to 4pm. Free entry to the festival and most of the activities. Fun for all the family. Come along and enjoy events, displays and activities including boat rides and a falconry display. Boat rides available by booking only."
Cornwall: Summer Rivers Course: 25-26 July 2009. "The Westcountry Rivers Trust will be running a two-day river expert course which is a mixture of practical river-side skills and taught lab and classroom based identification. The course is open to anyone with an interest in the ecology and management of our rivers." See website for details.
Scotland: Glasgow River Festival: 25-26 July 2009.
Hampshire: Hampshire Water Festival: 25-26 July 2009.
Gloucestershire: River Folk Festival: 25 July 2009. The Trout Inn, Lechlade.
Derbyshire: Reserve Work Party, The Avenue Washlands: 26 July 2009. Meet at 9.30am at the visitor centre, Mill Lane.
Norfolk: NWT Ranworth Broad Family Boat Trips: "Join Norfolk Wildlife Trust on a voyage of exploration across tranquil Ranworth Broad – we guarantee we'll be the only boat out there, so peace and quiet is guaranteed. Find out about the history of the broad and borrow inoculars to help you get even closer to Ranworth’s wildlife." Event Dates: Monday 27 July, 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 August. Trip Times: 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm. Booking essential as places are limited.
London: Catch 21: Wed 29 July: A series of events to "get London fishing" by developing a socially inclusive and environmentally aware angling programme in London organized by Thames21.
Cornwall: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Wed 29 July: Beach clean at Newquay, (Fistral's South end) with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Thursday 30 July. Cuton Lake, Chelmer Village.
Devon: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Thu 30 July: Beach clean at Croyde (Baggy Point End) with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.
Dorset: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Fri 31 July: Beach clean at Bournemouth (By Bournemouth Pier) with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.

August

National: Wildlife Trusts Marine Week: 1-16 August: Lots of activities organized by Wildlife Trusts all around the country.
Wales: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Sat 1 August: Beach clean at Llangennith (Hill End Campsite) with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.
Glasgow: River Kelvin clean-up: Sat 1st August 10.30 a.m-12pm: "Get fit, get a warm glow and help improve the quality of our river for wildlife and for everyone! Wear old clothes and strong shoes or wellies. We will provide gloves and grabbers. Meet at Ha’penny Bridge House, just outside the west end of the Botanic Gardens, off Ford Road. Or cross the Botanic Gardens Bridge and turn left along the walkway."
Suffolk: Coracle Regatta at Bures Recreation Ground: 1 August. Young and old, beginners and experts welcome! River Stour Trust.
Cornwall: Atlantic Adventure Ocean Wildlife Rides: 1-18 August. "BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Come on this exciting marine wildlife trip on a RIB where expert guides will point out cetaceans, basking sharks, seals, sunfish and seabirds." See website for more details.
Brecon Beacons: Flora and Fauna Guided Walk: Llangorse Lake & Llangasty Meadows: Sat 1 August. "A chance to discover the flora and fauna that surrounds Llangorse Lake. This walk will be led by several experts to provide advice and knowledge on the species that live in this beautiful part of the county. Meet on the Llangorse side, in the car park (next to the toilet block), SO 128 272. Start 10.30am."
North East: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Sun 2 August: Beach clean at Saltburn-by-Sea (By the pier) with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.
Buckinghamshire: Bug hunt at College Lake: Date: Sunday 2 August 2009. Time: 11am-2pm. nr Tring, Bucks. "Join our search for life in the undergrowth, and uncover a wide range of creepy crawlies. Help will be available to identify your finds. Activities between 11am and 2pm, join us for as long as you want. No dogs please."
Cumbria: The damsels and dragonflies of Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve: Sunday, 02 August 2009, 10:30am - 4:00pm. This a superb chance for you and your family to walk around south Cumbria's largest peat bog and hear about lowland raised mire ecology.
Herefordshire: Wye & Usk Foundation at the Herefordshire Country Fair: Sun 2 August. "The Foundation will again be running an extended Fishing Section with demonstrations, a coarse fishing competition and displays by clubs and river associations throughout the Wye. Admission to the show is 8 pounds and gates open at 9am."
Sussex: SAS Barefoot Friendly Beach Cleaning Tour: Mon 3 August: Beach clean at Brighton Yellow Wave, Madeira Drive on 3rd August with Surfers Against Sewage and Barefoot Wine.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Wed 5 August. Newland Hall Fishery, Roxwell, near Chelmsford.
Scotland: Camp for Climate Action (Scotland): 3-10 August.
Derbyshire: Pond Dipping: "South Derbyshire Wildlife Watch Group event at Rosliston Forestry Centre. Discover what lies beneath the surface of the flight pond. Meet at the pond between 2pm and 4pm. We provide all the equipment, but please be prepared to share within family groups. Cost 2 pounds per child. For more details contact the Environmental Education Project on 01283 535039."
London: Catch 21: 4-5 August: A series of events to "get London fishing" by developing a socially inclusive and environmentally aware angling programme in London organized by Thames21.
Yorkshire: Potteric by the Sea: 5 August: "Celebrate Marine Week! and find out more about the fantastic marine life around the Yorkshire coast. A fun day of marine and seaside themed activities and crafts." Meet: At the Potteric Carr Nature Reserve entrance.
Avon: Aquamania at Willsbridge Mil: 5 August 2009. Dip with pond nets to discover the huge variety of wildlife lurking in the Upper Mill pond. Organized by Avon Wildlife Trust.
London: Battersea Thames foreshore cleanup: Sun 9 August: Location: Battersea Bridge. Details to be announced. Organized by Thames21.
London: Catch 21: 11-12 August: A series of events to "get London fishing" by developing a socially inclusive and environmentally aware angling programme in London organized by Thames21.
Glasgow: Friends of the River Kelvin: Canoe safari and dinner: 11 August: "...the chance to undertake a journey via canoe along the coast and over to one of the Volcanic islands on Loch Lomond... others may want to visit Luss village, View the ancient Celtic masonry in the parish pilgrimage centre or to undertake a short walk amongst the surrounding countryside." More details on the website.
London: Foreshore fun day!: 13 August: Location: Gabriel's Wharf, South Bank, SE1, in front of ITV and the BFI. Join Thames21 as we reclaim the foreshore for a whole host of fun and games suitable for all the family. As the tide goes out, expect knotted hankies and deck chairs galore as we offer up a series of traditional (and not so traditional!) beach games on the sandy shore.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Thursday 13 August. Puddledock Farm Fishery, Upminster.
Wales: Climate Camp Cymru: 13-16 August. "4 days of sustainable living, workshops and direct action to face up to the root causes of climate change in Wales".
Sussex: Bevern Stream Gravel Substrate Improvement: Conservation tasks with the Sussex Ouse Conservation Society. See website for location and details details.
Oxfordshire: Opening of Porters Pond at Blenheim Farm Nature Reserve: Come along to a BBOWT Wildlife Discovery afternoon at the Reserve on Sunday 16 August 2.30-4pm to celebrate the official opening of the new "Porters Pond". Find out what pond creatures have moved in already and also enjoy some refreshments - including a pond cake!
Wales: Conwy River Festival: 8-16 August 2009.
Ireland: Climate Camp Ireland: Co. Offaly, 15-23 August 2009.
North England: Earth First Summer Gathering: 19-23 August 2009.
Essex: Free angling coaching event: Thursday 20 August. Cuton Lake, Chelmer Village.
Dorset: Adult Pond-Dipping At Steamer Point: Training Course/Workshop, Steamer Point. Thurs 20 August, 7pm. Meet at 7 pm at Steamer Point Information Centre (map ref. SZ197928).
Teesside: Tees River Festival: 22-28 August 2009.
Somerset: Makeover and Balsam Bash: Saturday 22nd August, 10:30 am-12:00 pm at Frome Canoe Club. "Anyone who can please come with wellingtons or waders and we will tackle litter and Himalayan Balsam near the Blue House."
Nottinghamshire: Inland Waterways Association National Festival and Boat Show: 29-31 August 2009 (August bank holiday weekend). This year's venue is the River Soar Navigation near Nottingham.
Herefordshire: Hereford Rotary Charity River Festival: 31 August 2009.

September

UK: Camp for Climate Action 2009: 27 Aug- 2 Sep 2009. Mass direct action against climate change somewhere in England.
Hampshire: Keyhaven Birdwatch: 3rd September 2009: First in the regular autumn, winter and spring series of short walks with Steve Lankester to see the autumn passage migrants of the Keyhaven and Pennington marshes.
London: Waterway Champions Training Day: 3rd September 2009: A FREE one-day course to show 16-25 year olds how, when and where to become a Waterway Champion, helping Londons rivers and canals to thrive.
Surrey: Bay Pond Work Party, Godstone: 4th September 2009: 9.30am - 3.30pm every Friday General work party.
Yorkshire: Pondy Critters: 5th September 2009: Join Yorkshire Wildlife Trust as they delve into the murky depths of a brand new pond and explore the bugs and beasties who call it home. Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm. Meet: Stocksbridge Technology Centre - Bishopdike Road (B1222) Cawood to Sherburn road.
London: River Quaggy Annual River Walk: 6th September 2009: Details to be announced.
London: Angel Canal Festival: 6th September 2009: This annual festival is based around City Road Lock and Basin and along the tow path to Packington Park.
Cornwall: Bats near the Helford River: 6th September 2009: BOOKING ESSENTIAL. “Hear and see” the local Helford bats with Dr Carol Williams using bat detectors and night vision glasses.
Lincolnshire: Water Vole Conservation and Mink Control: Thursday, September 10-Friday, September 11. Waters' Edge Country Park, 9.30am - 5pm: "In conjunction with PSPL Training Ltd., this two-day course is aimed at environmental professionals and estate managers. Topics include the theory and practice of water vole/mink survey and monitoring work for conservation and habitat protection. Book on 01652 637055."
London: The Mayor's Thames Festival: 12-13th September 2009: A spectacular, free celebration of London and its river.
Somerset: Looking for signs of otters: Sat 12 September, 2-4pm. Guided Walk A walk along the bank of the River Frome looking for signs of otters and other wildlife with Tony House.
Powys: Pond discovery day: 12 September 2009: A pond appreciation day learning how to identify pond life and plants and find out more about surveying ponds in your local area. Booking essential. A joint event with Radnorshire Wildlife Trust. Funded by Environment Wales. 10:00am-1:00pm.
Berkshire: Coash trip to RSPB Minsmere: 12 September 2009: A joint BBOWT/East Berks RSPB/Berks Ornithological Club coach trip to Minsmere to see waders, warblers, bitterns and more.
Somerset: Friends of the River Frome Work Party: Tuesday 15th September, 4:00pm-7:00 pm at Frome Canoe Club. As many people as possible please drop in for an hour or so during the early evening and collect the kit to tackle litter or possibly weeds.
Leicestershire: Return of the otter: Wednesday 16 September 2009 7:30pm, Village Hall, Great Bowden. Chris Farmer of the Environment Agency will tell us how otters have been sighted in the area. Organised by the Great Bowden Group
Cornwall: Boat Trip to Lostwithiel: 18 September. Friends of the Fowey Estuary Event. Booking essential cost £10. See website for details.
Derbyshire: Guided Walk: The Avenue Washlands: 20 Sep 2009. "A guided walk through the Avenue Washlands to see the wetland and farmland bird species and other wildlife on the reserve. Booking is essential - contact Derbyshire Wildlife Trust on 01773 881188." Location: The Avenue Washlands Nature Reserve.
Sussex: Sussex Ouse Conservation Society Open Day: 13 Sep 2009. Public Car Park, Barcombe Mills, Sussex. Learn all about the Sussex Ouse and the Society's goals and achievements. HiTech WildTrek will also be there, showing aquatic monsters. See website for contact details.
Hampshire: Fugelmere Marsh conservation tasks: 13 Sep 2009. Removal of regenerating scrub and saplings from the central area of the marsh.
London: Pond maintenance, Derwent Floodwash, Merton: 13th Sept.10:00 - 16:00. Active conservation session on Derwent Floodwash Local Nature Reserve, including pond maintenance and clearing excess emergent vegetation. Wellington boots essential!
Yorkshire: Bailiff Bridge community space: Bailiff-Bridge, Saturday 19 September 2009. Come and help create a new public space to complement the new library and community centre which is being built. Meet at the corner of Wakefield Road and Victoria Road at 10 o'clock to start building a footpath down to the beck.
Oxfordshire: Watching the river flow: Sat 19 September. Artist Alexander Pemberton will be talking about the background to his paintings of the River Thames and his professional career as an artist. The exhibition opens today and continues until 3 January 2010.
Suffolk: The fish in our seas: Sat 19 September. 10.30am - 12.30pm. A morning event looking at fishing and overfishing with games and activities on the beach. For families and children. Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
Hampshire: Itchen Navigation Arts Project: 18-20 Sep 2009. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust are working with artist Abigail Downer on the Itchen Navigation Arts Project from 2009 to 2010. Come to our first free public art event at Riverside Park, next to Woodmill Lane in Southampton from 18th -20th September 2009.
Sussex: Sussex Ouse Conservation Volunteers: 20 Sep 2009. The task force will be working on gravel substrate improvement, Bevern Stream. See website for details.
Derbyshire: Guided Walk: The Avenue Washlands: 20 Sep 2009. A guided walk through the Avenue Washlands to see the wetland and farmland bird species and other wildlife on the reserve. Booking is essential - contact Derbyshire Wildlife Trust on 01773 881188.
Dorset: Beachwatch Beach Clean: Worbarrow Bay: Sun 20 September, 1.30pm. Free event. All equipment provided. Follow signs from car park at Tyneham.
Lincolnshire: Boston Rowing Marathon: Boston Rowing Club, Sunday, 20th September. An annual head of the river race run over a 31 mile course on the River Witham between Lincoln and Boston (UK). This year, a new disabled-access platform will be opening.
Buckinghamshire: Denham Nine Stiles Walk: Join Groundwork on a 5.5 mile circular walk passing through old Denham village looking at rivers, canals and changes to the land in the Denham area. Finishing at the Colne Valley Park Visitor Centre, Denham Country Park where refreshments are available for purchase. Meeting at the Colne Valley Park Visitor Centre at 11am. Parking £2. Call 01895 833375 to book this walk.
Worcestershire: Nature of a Local Farm and Kingfishers: 25th September 2009, Talk organized by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Venue: The Eco-Centre, Stourbridge, DY8 3NQ.
Suffolk: Illuminated Boat Procession in Sudbury: Sat 26 September. Take part or watch the flotilla light up the Stour to mark 12th Anniversary of Cornard Lock. River Stour Trust.
Devon: Hospicecare One Mile Swim: Whether you are swimming just for the challenge or as an experienced competitor, join us for the Hospiscare One-Mile Swim on Saturday September 26th, Roadford Lake, Devon. Enter now!
London: Lea River Park drop-in session: Please come along to our drop-in session where you can see more about the proposed Lea River Park. Drop-in session. 3.00pm - 5.00pm The Barn, Bromley by Bow Centre, E3 3BT.
Suffolk: A year in the life of the Broads: Tue 29 September. A talk by Colin Hart, 7.30pm, Redgrave & Lopham Fen Visitor Centre, admission 2 pounds.

October

Norfolk: Great Ouse Flood Management Plan Drop-In: Thursday 1st October. The Environment Agency is holding a drop in event focusing on the flood management of the Great Ouse and how it may affect the local community. The event is to be held at the Denver sluice complex on Thursday 1 October between 2 and 7 pm to allow interested parties have their say on the draft Great Ouse Tidal River Strategy, which covers an area of the Cambridgeshire and Norfolk Fens from Earith to King's Lynn.
Northamptonshire: Pitsford Reservoir work party: Thursday 1st October. Please meet at the reserve. No skills are needed as training and tools are provided. Wear suitable clothing and footwear, and bring something to eat and drink. Please ring Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Peterborough for further details.
Gloucestershire: Otter Holt Construction Day: Saturday Oct 3rd 2009, Time: 10:00 - 16:00, Stroud (tbc). Pre-Booking Required.
Glasgow: Friends of the River Kelvin: Cleanup: Saturday Oct 3rd 2009, 10.30am; Meet at Kelvinbridge Subway Station, Great Western Road.
Wiltshire: Action for the River Kennet Autumn Walk 2009: "On Sunday October 4th our annual river walk will follow a new route exploring a parts of the river between Ramsbury and Chilton Foliat. Starting at the Old Mill, Ramsbury the walk will follow the river downstream through Ramsbury Mill and beyond to the Eastridge Estate."
Essex: Roman River Festival: 7-11 October 2009.
Hampshire: Fugelmere Marsh and Wood conservation: Sunday 11-Oct-09: Removal of some trees from the woodland edge to enhance wetland habitat and create a more graded edge. Coppicing of the woodland edge to produce denser growth.
Durham: The unique flora of the Durham Sea Cliffs by David Mitchell 7.15pm: October 13th, Gateshead Wildlife Group.New members assured of a warm welcome.
Hampshire: Walk and bird watch around Blashford Lakes Wildlife Reserve: 07 October 2009, Time: 2-4pm. "Join Hants Wildlife Trust to view the last of the summer migrants and to see which of our winter visitors have already started to arrive.More details on the website."
Oxfordshire: Henley Literary Festival: 2-4 October 2009. Many activities based around the River Thames.
Birmingham: Practical Projects Volunteer day: 09:00am Thursday 8th October, meet at the BBC Wildlife Trust Office, 28 Harborne Road, Edgbaston. "We will be taking volunteers out with us on a practical project. Please bring sturdy shoes, clothes you don't mind getting dirty in and your own lunch."
Surrey: A Celebration of the Natural History of the River Thames: LOCATION: Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames. TIME: 6.30pm. See website for cost/booking info.
Yorkshire: Calder Valley river cleanup: 10 October 2009. "Clean up with Halifax Canoe Club. Sowerby Bridge, Saturday 10 October 2009. Meet under railway bridge (by taxi cabin) off Station Road 10 am "
Hertfordshire: Family Walk along the River Stort: 10 October 2009. "Meet Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust at 10am at Harlow Town train station, for a walk along the River Stort. Short train journey to Roydon followed by walk back along the River to Harlow. Approx. 3 ½ miles. - finishing around 1pm. Bring a packed lunch or a snack to keep you going! Walk suitable for children over 6 years old. Tow path not suitable for pushchairs. Wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear and bring binoculars if you have them. Minimum donation £2.00 per person requested. Booking essential. Contact HMWT on 01727 858901. Note: Train fares approx.: £2.80 (adult) £1.40 (Under 16s)"
Essex: Voluntary Cleanup of the Rivers Chelm and Can: Saturday, October 10, 9am to 1pm. Cleaning an area between Wharf Road Car Park (by Essex Record Office) and Bunny Walk (beyond Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre). Volunteers please meet in Wharf Road car park where there is free parking for those helping.
London (Morden): Pond maintenance: Sunday 11th of Oct - Derwent Floodwash 10:00 - 16:00. Pond maintenance and clearing excess emergent vegetation. Wellies essential!
Avon: RIVER DIPPING with Dave Sage: Sunday 11th October, near Dapp's Hill bridge, Keynsham (ST 657681) 2pm. Wellingtons essential! Avon Wildlife Trust.
Lincolnshire: Humber Boat Trips: Humber Estuary: Sunday 11th Oct 11am, 12noon & 1pm: "The Humber River is an exceptional environment providing resources for people and habitats for a surprising array of wildlife. Sailing from the River Ancholme, these short boat rides sail out on to the Humber and by Reads Island. Places are limited and booking is essential". Lincs Wildlife Trust.
Somerset: Friends of the Somerset River Frome: The BIG AUTUMN Event: Saturday 10th October, 10:15 am - 12:00 pm at Frome Canoe Club: "The big autumn working party. Arrive 10.15am for a publicity photo. Get a group together to clean up a corner of Frome you care about."
Wiltshire: Talk on Water Meadows by Dr Mark Everard: 12 October 2009, 7.30pm. Dr Mark Everard, water meadows expert and author of a definitive book, will talk on the origins and use of water meadows. Organized by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.
Somerset: Why the Somerset Wetlands formed: Talk, 15 October 2009. 7.30-9.30pm.: "The Somerset Levels have geological underpinnings. Their formation can be related to changes in both climate and geology. In this talk Gerry Briggs brings together the factors that have made them a species-rich wetland as we know them today. In addition he has some views on how the geology and climate will affect their future development. United Reform Church Hall, West Street, Somerton. Children welcome. Suitable for wheelchair users/limited mobility. £2.50."
Cornwall: The Private Life of Cornish Seals: 17/10/2009 19:30, Penwith. Illustrated talk: "Sue Sayer of the Cornwall Seal Group uses a multimedia illustrated talk to give an enthralling behind the scenes look at the private life of Cornish seals throughout the season. Cost £2 Group members and children free."
Berkshire: 7-mile walk: West Berkshire living landscape: Date: Saturday 17 October 2009, Time: 10am-3.30pm, Thatcham, Berks: "As part of the Thatcham Festival, BBOWT launches this second West Berkshire Living Landscape Walk. Accompanied by local experts, see the landscape from a different perspective; learn about the history that has shaped it and the wildlife that lives in it. Starting from the Moorside Community Centre, Thatcham, this new 7-mile circular walk goes along the canal to Crookham Manor, up and over the wooded plateau and down along the River Enborne. Returning via Crookham Common and Chamberhouse Farm. Booking essential. No dogs please."
Oxfordshire: Climate Change: The Challenge to Managing Flood Risk: Saturday 17 October. Talk at the River and Rowing Museum Henley by Peter Quarmby, he Regional Flood Risk Manager for the Thames Region, Environment Agency.
Cardiff: Cardiff River Tidy-up: October 17. Group members will tackle the large build-up of rubbish below Llandaff Weir. Click the link to find out more through the group's Yahoo website.
Yorkshire: River Colne Conker Championship: 19 October 2009. "Take on the staff of the River Project and try and take this years crown. Adults and childrens competition. Location to be arranged"
Glasgow: Friends of River Kelvin: River Kelvin Canoe Descent: Tue 20th October. "Wild by Nature Ltd is running a KELVIN DESCENT on the Tuesday 20th October 09.The intention is to offer 8 FORK members the chance to undertake a journey via canoe along this fantastic diverse river."
Oxfordshire: Big Draw: The longest River of Drawing: Sat 24th October, Time: 10.00am-5pm: River and Rowing Museum, Henley-on-Thames. "This is your chance to take part in a nationwide event and have a go at drawing in the River and Rowing Museum's Thames Gallery on the 'longest river of drawing'.Take inspiration from the Museum’s collection of boats and add your imagination!All drawing materials provided."
Scotland: National Hedgelaying Championships 2009: The 2009 National Championship will be held on Saturday 24th October at Turnastone Court Farm, Turnastone, Herefordshire. Okay, it's not a river event, but the farm is in glorious meadowland bordering the River Dore.
Scotland: Paddle 09: Scotland's Canoe and Kayak Show! On the 24th - 25th October at Perth Bells Centre, PH1 5HS
London: River Thames cleanup Putney Bridge, Wandsworth: Saturday, 24th October, 2009 12:30pm-14:30pm. Meet on Embankment, near Putney Bridge.
Warwickshire: Introduction to Habitat Management: Sunday 25th October, Time: 10.00am. "Join volunteer warden David Morphew for this introductory session into the art of habitat management for wildlife."FREE EVENT organized by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust.
Norfolk: Snooze or Cruise Hibernation and Migration Activities: 26 October 2009, 11am-3pm, NWT Ranworth Broad: "Find out about the migration and hibernation habits of the animals at Ranworth Broad and look for feeding signs, droppings and other tracks and trails in this fascinating Bure Valley Living Landscape.Make an autumnal craft upstairs in our floating visitor centre and take it home to do your bit for wildlife.No booking necessary.Pay at the visitor centre desk and find us upstairs."
Suffolk: Suffolk Wildlife Trust: Young wardens: Wed 28th October, 10am-2pm. Practical conservation Age 10-15. Cost: 6 pounds, booking needed. Location: Lackford Lakes Visitor Centre.
Shropshire: The Big Wine Quiz & Auction: Friday 30 October, 2009. A fund-raising event organized by The Wye and Usk Foundation for their Lugg & Arrow project.

November

Derbyshire: Miller's Dale Nature Reserve Work Party: Join Derbyshire Wildlife Trust at Miller's Dale nature reserve, on the banks of the River Wye, to help with practical conservation tasks. 1 November, Meet at 9.30am at Miller's Dale Station car park.
Devon: Devon Wildlife Trust: Wet & wild pond practical day: 10:30 am - 3:30 pm 1st November 2009. Venue: Exeter.
Ireland: Grand Canal Cleanup: See IWAI website for details of this and other conservation tasks throughout Ireland.
Glasgow: Friends of the River Kelvin: Cleanup: Saturday Nov 7, 2009, 10.30am; Meet at City Council Depot, Kelvingrove Park, Just off Kelvin Way.
London: Crossways Canal Clean-up: Saturday Nov 7, 2009, TIME: 9.00am - 12noon. LOCATION: Garganey Walk, Thamesmead North, SE28.
Hampshire: Fleed Pond Society: Conservation Tasks: Sunday 08-Nov-09"Gelvert Marsh: Removal of regenerating sallow and alder scrub".
Cornwall: Cornwall Wildlife Trust: Discovery Day and AGM: Sat 14 Nov. Learn all about the Trust’s Living Seas marine conservation work at the 2009 Discovery Day. AGM starts at 10am (open to Trust members only) then a range of exciting talks, open to all, start at 11am focusing on Cornwall’s wonderful marine wildlife. See website for more details and booking form.
Cumbria: The work of the Morecambe Bay Partnership: Tuesday, 17 November 2009, 7:45pm - 9:15pm. Come along and find out more about the Morecambe Bay Partnership in this illustrated talk by Susannah Bleakley. Organised by the Ulverston Local Support Group. Entrance is £2 for adults and free for children. Children over 12 years old are welcome to attend. Location: The Parish Centre, Church Walk, Ulverston.
Cornwall: Talk: Around the Helford River: By Jenna Oakes. Tuesday 17 Nov, 7.30 pm. Royal Fowey Yacht Club.
Avon: Portrait of an estuary: Wednesday 18 November.Nigel Tucker's film of the Severn Estuary. United Reformed Church Hall, Stockway North, Nailsea, 7.45pm. Entrance £2 (N).
Warwickshire: Cole River Conservation: Thursday 19th November, Time: 10.30 am – 12.00pm, Speaker: Peter Bennett. Cost: £2.50 including refreshments. Booking Essential.
Norfolk: NACA: An Evening With Mark Barrett and Denis Moules on the history of Fenland Pike Fishing: November 19th 7.30 at Bawburgh Village Hall (nr Norwich).
Herefordshire: Autumn River Walk: Sunday 29 November 2009. Organized by The Wye and Usk Foundation: "In 2007 and 2008, over 100 Visitors were shown spawning salmon, salmon leaping at falls and the improvements to the spawning and nursery habitats in which the Foundation is currently engaged. Please book early to avoid disappointment."
Herefordshire: River Wye Preservation Trust AGM: The Trust's 2009 AGM will be held on Thursday 26th November at the Bunch of Carrots, Hampton Bishop, Hereford, at 7.30 p.m. Following the AGM there will be a talk on the proposed Severn Barrage by Dr Stephen Marsh-Smith of the Wye and Usk Foundation and the evening will finish with light refreshments.
Middlesex: 1st British Indoor Kayak Championships: 21st - 22nd November 2009. Brunel University, Middlesex. Race Entries are now being taken - Closing date 20th November 2009.
Wales: RWT Leaping Salmon Watch: NOVEMBER Wednesday 18, Thursday 19, Saturday 21, Sunday 22, Monday 23, 2 - 4pm: "Numbers are limited to 12 people per watch, so booking is essential. Watch the annual spectacular as the salmon arrive back at the Gilfach nature reserve to spawn in the Marteg’s shallows. Location: Gilfach Nature Reserve Cost (includes soup & roll): £3 RWT Members; £6 non-members."
Brecknock: Managing your land for wildlife: Hedgerow Management for Wildife: Saturday 21st Nov. BWT Office, Brecon + Site visits. A day course for land managers and owners to learn more about the importance of hedgerows for wildlife and how to manage them. 10am-4pm. Booking Essential.
Berkshire: Chiltern Society: Walk by the Thames, East Berkshire: Sun 22 Nov. "Meet at free Hurley car park at the end of the village near church. A walk by the Thames and then up Ashley Hill near Dewdrop Inn. Lovely views and countryside."
Essex River Stour Trust: Christmas Bazaar in Sudbury: Saturday 28 November, 10am-2pm, Refreshments, Grand Draw, Tombola and many other stalls to delight Christmas shoppers!
London: Thamesmead Clean-up: Sun Nov 29, 2009, Details to be confirmed. TIME: 9.00am - 12noon
Somerset Friends of the Somerset River Frome: Working Party: Saturday 28th November, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm at Frome Canoe Club: "Last Makeover before the Spring".
Oxfordshire BBOWT: Tree planting at Chimney Meadows: Date: Sunday 29 November 2009. Time: 2-5pm, nr Bampton, Oxon. Chimney Meadows lies along the banks of the River Thames, near Bampton in west Oxfordshire.

December

Oxfordshire Walk: Harpsden Wood, Henley and the Thames Path: Dec 3. A walk that includes Harpsden Wood and the pleasant section of the River Thames south of Henley-on-Thames with Loddon Valley Ramblers walks leader Roger Avant.
Cornwall Friends of the Fowey Estuary: FISH MEAL with a quiz "with a different difference": Booking essential, Fri 4 Dec, 7.30 pm, Fowey.
Hampshire HWT: Explore the Shore at Warsash: 4 Dec. John Goodspeed will lead a five mile walk from Warsash out to the shore and back through fields, woodlands and reed beds looking for birds.
Oxfordshire Walk: River and farmland walk: 5 December. Join WDC Woodland Service warden John Shaw for this pleasant walk which takes in a short stretch of the Thames Path before crossing the river to Hurley. The return takes in both river and farmland views.
Buckinghamshire Walk: Gentle climb for a view of the River Thames: 6 December. Pat Miller, a regular National Trails volunteer leader, leads this walk which begins along a fine stretch of the River Thames and then climbs gently to hills overlooking the river valley.
Gwent Gwent Wildlife Trust: Solutia Meadows—Reen clearance: 6 December. Meet at the Civic Centre Newport, 10:30am. Clearance work on the "reens" (drainage ditches on the Gwent Levels marshes).
Derbyshire Reserve Work Party, Miller's Dale: 6 December. Join Derbyshire Wildlife Trust for a volunteer work party at Miller's Dale Nature Reserve (bordering the River Wye near Buxton). All are welcome. Meet at 9.30am Miller's Dale car park
London Hammersmith Clean-up: 6 December. Join Thames21 and help clean-up Queen Caroline's Drawdock by Hammersmith Bridge. This area needs regular cleaning and can get particularly bad. All equipment is provided, just turn up wearing clothes you don't mind getting a bit muddy.
Glasgow: Friends of the River Kelvin: Cleanup: Saturday Dec 5, 2009, 10.30am; "Meet at Ha'penny Bridge House, just outside the west end of the Botanic Gardens, off Ford Road. Or cross the Botanic Gardens Bridge and turn left along the walkway."
Brecknock: Sustainable Living Talk: Wed Dec 9, 2009. . Greyhound Hotel, Builth Wells. Grenville Ham from the BBNPA will deliver an illustrated talk about the practical ways you can reduce your impact on the environment. The talk will incoporate the issues of climate change, peak oil and a regional approach to environmentalism. Starts 7.30pm.
Lincolnshire: Welney Marshes: Coach trip to to see Bewick and whooper swans.: Sunday, January 10. Welney Marshes. 12.30pm. Meet ECP. Supper afterwards at Outwell pub. With the Sleaford Area Group.
Henley: Toad's Crackers about Christmas: Saturday 12 December. Get ready for Christmas by visiting Mr Toad, Ratty and Mole in the Wind and the Willows exhibition.
Surrey: Tales of the (Blackwater) Riverbank: Saturday 12 December. Man's activity in the Blackwater Valley and the 30 years of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership is the theme of an exhibition called Tales of the Riverbank, which opened at Surrey Heath Museum on Saturday 24th October and runs until Saturday 16th January 2010.
Kent Thames and Medway Canal Sunday Special Work Party: 13 December. 9:00am til 3.00pm. See website for contact details.
Kent Midwinter at Elmley Reserve: Sunday 13th 10am—2pm. Kent Wildlife Trust event: "Our yearly stroll and bird watch at this Isle of Sheppey reserve. There should be hundreds, if not thousands, of wintering wildfowl and a good selection of waders plus possible birds of prey."
Devon Birdwatching Cruise: Saltash: Cruise on the Rivers Tamar and Lyner to see avocets and spoonbills (see www.tamarwildlife.com). Full commentary by Bruce Taggart. Sailing at 8.45am for trip of approx 3 hours. Booking essential.
Buckinghamshire Winter birds at College Lake: 13 December. Join the warden and volunteers on a walk around College Lake to see some of the winter wildlife, including wildfowl on the lake. A gentle walk with some slopes, may be muddy in places. Booking essential. No dogs please.
London Barnes Christmas Clean-up!: 20 December. Join Thames21 and help clean-up the foreshore at Barnes in the lead-up to Christmas. All equipment is provided, just turn up wearing clothes you don't mind getting a bit muddy. Santa hats optional!
Alderney Boxing Day Walk: 26 December. A watery, wintery walk across Alderney.
Radnorshire Gilfach Seasonal Walk - Winter: 26 December. Ah, how about a glorious winter walk around Gilfach Nature Reserve on the confluence of the rivers Marteg and Wye in the Cambrian Mountains of Mid Wales?
Dorset Dorset Wildlife Trust: Holes Bay Midwinter Walk: 30 December. Guided Walk, Poole. Wednesday 30 Dec, 10.30am. Get out & about after the haze of Christmas & enjoy the natural history that you may encounter on this stroll around Holes Bay, looking at wildlife, yachting & local history.