The Island Rivers Catchment Plan is a live document, to be reviewed annually. It was last reviewed and revised in November 2019. It is a framework for identifying opportunities to improve the quality of all the Isle of Wight river catchments and coastal and groundwater. It will develop as the partnership grows and becomes sustainable, delivering collaborative projects which reduce Flood Risk and improve Water Quality, Water Resources and Bio-diversity.
With a vision of improving the quality of the Isle of Wight’s water environment and engaging more local people into understanding, protecting, enhancing and enjoying our water-courses, the plan prioritises actions which improve water quality, reduce invasive non-native species, improve river management, influence planners and developers and improve riverine and floodplain habitats.
When evaluating the effectiveness of actions, it is important that a holistic approach is taken to a water catchment. This plan therefore details past projects and current activities in order to identify future projects.
Priority catchments are the Eastern Yar (including Wroxall Stream and Scotchells Brook) and the River Medina. These catchments offer the greatest opportunities for improvements. It is recognised that the larger Isle of Wight rivers may require their own specific plans, which can be developed at a later date.
The plan assesses the capacity of the Catchment Partnership to deliver improvements.
The Island Rivers Catchment Plan can be read by clicking here. Have a look at all the things we are doing, would love to do, or have delivered over the past few years – you will be amazed!