Restoring a national icon
Efforts by agencies to restore the iconic River Taff to its natural glory has resulted in huge improvements to water quality, but to complete the transformation environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy are calling on people living along its banks to do their bit by helping to remove unsightly litter black spots.
The Taff is one of the ten major rivers in the UK, but for centuries was subjected to misuse by industry and local residents. During the coal mining era the flowing waters ran black, and with the boom in housing along its banks it became a convenient location for getting rid of household waste.
But over the past decade the significant investment made in improving the quality of the waters has seen wildlife return in abundance to the Taff. Its upper reaches are now regarded as one of the best locations for trout fishing, whilst there is evidence of otter populations in its lower reaches.
To complete the picture and create a river that is loved and looked after, Keep Wales Tidy are calling for volunteers to get involved in the ‘Great Taff Tidy’ and improve the aesthetic appearance of the river, from its source in the Brecon Beacons along its 52 mile stretch to Cardiff Bay.
As part of the Tidy Towns project, the Great Taff Tidy’ will take place from 3rd to 5th September. The search is now on for community groups, businesses, local residents, fishing clubs, canoe enthusiasts etc to come forward and ‘adopt’ a stretch of river to clean-up on the weekend of action.
Keep Wales Tidy’s Projects Director, Louise Tambini said, “The Great Taff Tidy is a fantastic opportunity to improve the appearance of the River Taff in one big hit. Now that the water quality is good, it is the litter hanging from the bankside vegetation that detracts from the River’s beauty. It would be great if we could have groups along the River’s entire length all working together - the difference we could make would be astounding! Keep Wales Tidy is making a plea to anyone who enjoys walking or cycling along the Taff, or those who fish or canoe on its waters to come forward and join in this mammoth effort”.
Organisations who have already signed up include: Cardiff Rivers Group, Dwr Cymru, Glamorgan Anglers, Canoe Wales, Ramblers, Sustrans, Merthyr Outdoor Learning Centre.
Keep Wales Tidy officers will be available to advise and assist groups and may be also be able to provide free insurance and equipment.
Anyone wishing to help, in any shape or form, are asked to contact Louise Tambini on 02920 726976 or email louise.tambini@keepwalestidy.org
Anyone with a boat, wetsuit or diving equipment will be especially welcome!
keepwalestidy.org
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