The Friends of the River Shep (ForShep) was set up in April 1999 to safeguard the River Shep from the pressures of modern life. It emerged out of a village meeting which decried the state of the river and the lack of wildlife. The formation of this society represents a real effort by local people to conserve their local environment.
The aims of the group are:
To sustain and protect the river
To encourage and protect the bio-diversity of its flora and fauna
To encourage and promote the preservation and enhancement of the river
To produce a list of issues perceived to be affecting the river
Achievements of the group include:
Highlighting the plight of the native white-clawed crayfish
Influencing the District Council’s maintenance regime upon the river
Undertaking river weed cutting days
Appointing a local river warden
Commissioning a full corridor and level survey of the river
Undertaking low key enhancement work at four sites including Fowlmere Nature Reserve
Organising guided walks and bat evenings
Organising pond-dipping events for children
The group has worked closely with local conservation groups, with South Cambs District Council, the Environment Agency and was selected to launch the Biodiversity Action Plan for rivers and wetlands in 2001.
But it is not necessary for alll our members to know how to hew trees, cut reeds or tramp the river - everyone's support is valuable. We hope that members will enjoy one or more of the events arranged throughout the year.
ForShep is a voluntary conservation group with a constitution and its own bank account. Membership is by household. The group has over 60 household memberships.
Membership is by household. Members receive occasional newsletters and are invited to various events throughout the year. If you would like to join us please kendrie_btconnect.com.
