ABOUT US
THE TRUST
The Wear Rivers Trust was launched in November 2008 in an amalgamation of The Weardale Environmental Trust and River Wear Environment Trust. Both previous trusts had a proven track record with different aspects of the River Wear. The amalgamation of the trusts and the adoption of The Rivers Trust's principles has allowed the Wear Rivers Trust to work at a catchment scale; making the link between the land, the river, and the pressures placed upon it by communities and industry within the catchment. We believe that the River Wear is a precious freshwater resource that everyone should be proud of. We want to encourage people to look after and enjoy their River Wear.
The Trust develops projects, raises funds and works in partnerships to research the state of the river environment and undertake informed actions towards the improvement of the Wear catchment. We also believe that it is vital to raise awareness of the value of the River Wear to people both locally and further afield. To this end we take every opportunity to inform people about the work we do, increase people's understanding of the environmental factors that influence the river system and educate people about what they can do to make a positive difference.
The Wear Rivers Trust has no statutory powers but aims to work with the appropriate authorities to best improve and manage the catchment. We rely entirely on the goodwill and help of others to make positive changes.
The Wear Rivers Trust is the only charity dedicated to conserving and protecting the River Wear, its tributaries and surrounding countryside for all.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Wear Rivers Trust is to conserve, protect, rehabilitate and improve the landscape and watercourses of the whole River Wear catchment, from the watershed to the estuarine and adjacent coastal areas, through involving individuals, local communities, government agencies and public bodies with proactive improvement works and monitoring, and by increasing awareness and understanding of the environmental factors that influence the river and its associated wildlife, whilst helping to promote the river as a recreational feature for the enjoyment of all.
The Trust is a member of the The Rivers Trust (formerly The Association of River Trusts) and works with the local community throughout the catchment of the Wear from the source in Upper Weardale to the coast to conserve, protect, restore and improve the rivers and streams of the catchment.
One of our key aims is to raise awareness of the value of the River Wear, including its flora, fauna, social and economic benefits, and to help people understand the need for conservation and restoration, as well as to promote exploration and enjoyment of this precious resource.
