Inspiring the next generation of marine biologists and banishing balsam are just some of the projects in Cumbria to receive a boost from a new fund that’s helping community groups look after our environment and waterways. 

As part of its commitment to make rivers beautiful and support others to care for them, United Utilities has launched a Community Fund which aims to support grassroots organisations by providing much needed equipment and training.  

Andrew Kendall, county business leader at United Utilities, explains more: “We are delighted to support so many groups across Cumbia and the North West who are working together to keep our rivers, lakes and water bodies beautiful. To be able to see so many groups benefit from both new equipment and much needed training has been very rewarding. This support helps these group work in a more efficient and effective way which saves both time and money.”

Here we find out about three groups reaping the rewards from the Community Fund.

North West Ocean school play a vital part in marine conservation

Volunteers are essential in conservation efforts to preserve and enhance waterways in the North West. The North West Ocean School is one such organisation. Leader Caitlin Parsonage started the group in the hope of inspiring local children to become future scientists and sustainability advocates.

Her sessions on Allonby Beach involve educating children about basic marine biology concepts alongside regular litter picking sessions. Through the Community Fund, the group has received equipment for their field work including quadrats to help frame an area for study, measuring tapes, callipers and geo sleeves.

“Allonby is a Highly Protected Marine Area, the gold standard of marine protection, and is a truly special place for species and habitats. Some sharks and skates lay eggs and we’ve spotted lots of egg cases today, I’m always surprised at the wonderful nature we find here.

“Teaching our younger generations about marine biology and conservation has always been a passion of mine, and what better place to do this than at Allonby beach.”

Bashing that balsam!

Conservation work started back in 2016 for our next group of volunteers who meet in the Wasdale Valley to preserve and improve the River Irt.  The 18-strong team not only help with the conservation of the natural environment but keep the area accessible for the public to enjoy. This group can often be found planting trees, repairing paths and drystone walls, and controlling rhododendron and Himalayan Balsam growth.

Over the years their efforts have taken its toll on their tools. The Community Fund was proud to support such a hard-working cause and deliver new equipment to enable their vital work to continue.

Wasdale volunteer Phil Scotchbrook said: “We’re all local to the area and want to do something to help the environment. As a group we get on very well together. If we can do our bit we’re protecting the River Irt and the multiple species that thrive here.

“This donation from Untied Utilities is going to make a huge difference. Having proper tools will mean we’re able to carry out our work much more efficiently. What could have taken six hours, will now take us two.”

Stopping the spread of invasive species

The spread of invasive species isn’t just a concern in Wasdale, it’s also been on the minds of a group of anglers. The Windermere, Ambleside and District Angling Association requested net dip bins and disinfectant, to ensure their nets weren’t causing any harm to lake life. The fund was only too happy to help, and provided this equipment so that the group could continue their excellent efforts.

Find out how you can get involved

Do you have a community project or grassroots organisation that could benefit from this fund? The Community Fund is offering up to £2,500 worth of equipment for groups that: 

  • have a focus or objective to improve local watercourses and riverside environments
  • act as catalysts for improved community and environmental wellbeing​
  • seek to reconnect communities with riverside environments​
  • promote sustainable drainage​ through their work

If you or someone you know is a force of nature and champions environmental change in your area - especially when it comes to local waterways, then send your contact details to stakeholderrelations@uuplc.co.uk detailing:

  • a brief outline of the organisation/group you represent
  • the work you want to do
  • what you require to support your work

If your application is successful, United Utilities will look at purchasing the equipment for you using existing suppliers.

You can also visit: unitedutilities.com/better-rivers/what-we-are-doing/supporting-communities/