Take me to the river

Harry McGrath, Berkophile and director of environmental adventure company Hamba Africa, discusses the importance of our local waterways.

A central fixture for all Berkophiles is our marvellous canal and water courses – did you know that the River Bulbourne originates and is classified as a chalk stream river?

Chalk stream rivers are exceptionally rare, and require just the right blend of climate and geography to form. In fact over 80% of global chalk stream rivers are found in England, with many of them calling Hertfordshire home.

Chalk streams and rivers provide sanctuary and safety for many species of flora and fauna, from fish and the patient heron that waits for them on the bank’s edge, to the impatient and seldom-seen otter that hunts in secret.

As this river nurtures and provides life for these species, so it supports us, its custodians.

We owe it: the water we drink, power to turn the wheels of old mills and industry, defence and protection around the castle moat, and as our place of serenity, peace and good company after a stressful day.

As the river’s custodians, it is our duty and privilege to steward this precious life source, from simply minding our own actions and not discarding litter into rivers when out walking, to joining local environmental protection organisations or volunteer groups to engage with conservation projects that are going the extra mile.

If you want to explore a deeper connection with your own environment and the natural world, why not follow that instinct right to its source?