Chalk Stream Connectors
With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Chalk Stream Connectors is helping communities connect with four rare chalk streams across South London.
State of Our Rivers Report 2026
If our rivers aren’t fit for the future, neither are we. Explore interactive maps and discover the latest information about river health in the UK and Ireland — and what needs to be done to restore them.
What we do
We protect and restore rivers across the South East, inspiring all ages to enjoy and care for them. Our expert team improves habitats, water quality and flood resilience, partnering with communities to tackle water scarcity, boost biodiversity and deliver lasting, evidence-led change.
Flood and drought resilience in Kent
Across 16 hectares of the Upper Beult catchment in Kent, we’ve been restoring the landscape to hold water naturally and make the river system more resilient to flooding and drought.
Natural Flood Management in the Upper Mole
Working with Gatwick Airport and local landowners, we’re using nature-based solutions to slow the flow of water, reduce flood risk and create healthier habitats for wildlife.
Farming and nature thriving together
Discover how farmers in the Eden Valley are working together to improve water quality, support wildlife and create a resilient, productive landscape.
Our mission and impact
Healthy rivers are essential to life on earth. With your help, we've achieved so much for rivers across South East England.
It’s been wonderful to work with the South East Rivers Trust. The advice and support have made a huge difference.Bek Bibby - fifth generation grower at West Pikefish Farm
33 km
fish passage created
300
river cleanups
50,000 m³
flood storage created
40,000
volunteer hours restoring rivers
Discover your rivers
Find your local river with the help of our map. Use the map to find out which catchment you are in and see how your local river connects to the wider network of waterways.
Donate
Your donations are vital in helping us restore and protect rivers across the South East of England. Together, we can make a lasting impact, for people and wildlife.
Sign up to our newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter and discover how we protect rivers and help nature thrive.
Volunteer
Rivers need many hands to look after them. By volunteering with us, you can really make a difference.
Latest updates
Learn about projects in your area, find volunteer events near you and discover more about our waterways.
New report highlights progress restoring England’s chalk streams
10/11/2026A new national report highlights the challenges facing England's rare chalk streams and how our restoration projects are helping create healthier rivers for wildlife and people. Chalk streams are among the rarest freshwater habitats in the world, with around 85% found in England. Fed by water that filters through underground chalk, they're known for their clear, cool waters and rich wildlife, including brown trout, kingfishers and water voles.
Yet these special rivers are under increasing pressure.
The Catchment Based Approach (CaBA) Chalk Stream Annual Review 2025/26 highlights the challenges facing England's chalk streams, alongside encouraging evidence of progress and the work being done to protect and restore them.
Several South East Rivers Trust projects feature in the review, demonstrating how practical river restoration, research and partnership working can help these precious habitats recover.
An introduction to the ‘wee beasties’ of the river
19/10/2026In our new blog, SERT placement student Eilidh Vass Payne discusses riverfly monitoring and how you can get involved.
Bringing water voles back to the Hogsmill
29/07/2026We restored vital river and wetland habitat before returning water voles to Surrey after an absence of more than 20 years.
Chalk Stream Connectors
30/06/2026Helping people reconnect with some of the world's rarest rivers. Chalk Stream Connectors brings communities together through arts, culture, nature and volunteering to celebrate and protect local chalk streams.
