The River Sid Catchment Group has secured funding from East Devon National Landscape to expand their work on the river, with a focus on nature connection within the Sid valley.

The group will be working with artists, youth workers, teachers and many others to engage people on what matters to them about the River Sid.

As well as the chance to have a say, the group will be offering volunteering opportunities and hosting nature connection activities in the hope of creating the space for people to press pause in their busy lives, remembering what it feels like to be in nature, specifically alongside our special River Sid.

Research suggests that young people are least connected with nature yet would benefit hugely from what it has to offer in terms of mental wellbeing, physical fitness and social opportunities.

The outreach project aims to provide arts and volunteering opportunities for young people in order to help them build conservation experience and a greater connection with nature in general.

The river consultation in the summer of 2024 showed a lack of engagement from 16-40-year-olds, so the project will aim to provide opportunities for those who might not have been able to have their say last time due to work or other life commitments.

This project is part of a ‘catchment plan’ for the Sid Valley, where the River Sid Catchment Group are working to support the river’s wildlife and help to make it more resilient to climate change, including slowing the flow of water through the valley.

They are hoping to raise awareness of these issues within as many local communities as possible, encouraging more people to get on board to support the River Sid by volunteering or simply raising awareness amongst their families and friends about the challenges our river, wildlife and landscape is facing.

The project is funded by the East Devon National Landscape Community Project Fund, delivered locally on behalf of Defra.

If you would like to be involved, please email the group at ourriversid@gmail.com.