Initiative launches to improve river’s health

An initiative to help residents take practical action for the River Frome’s health has launched.

Frome Families for the Future is running the project as part of their River Vision Project, aiming to protect the river by reducing chemicals and water use while helping residents save money.

Coordinator Lizzie Venning said, “The campaign features beautifully designed posters created by local artist Tamsyn Gill, offering everyday tips that, when done as a community, can make a big difference to our town’s precious river.

“The River Vision Project has developed a series of five posters and a postcard with simple, everyday tips you can try at home.

“The River Frome plays an important role in managing climate challenges like flooding and drought. A healthy river purifies our drinking water, supports biodiversity, helps regu-late temperatures and improves mental health.

“When we care for the river, we’re protecting our own health, wildlife, community wellbeing and future generations.”

Lizzie added, “Report sewage, dead fish, strange smells or colours to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60. Make your voice heard by writing to, or requesting a meeting with, your water company or MP. Discover plants and animals in or near the river and record what you see on iNaturalist; take part in the Great UK WaterBlitz and Big River Watch in April.”

Coordinator Gemma said, “The River Vision Project aimed to reconnect people with the river through inspiring care, improving access and practical action.

“We’ve illustrated Frome’s personal water cycle and even wrote a song with the community, ‘I am the River’, later recorded in the Bert Jansch Studio. These posters, accompanied by a series of short videos filmed by and for tired parents and everyone else, extend our work by giving everyone meaningful ways to make a difference. Small daily changes can help the river, but coupled with writing to water companies, MPs and reporting pollution, they can have an even bigger impact.”

The River Festival returns on 28th June at Rodden Meadow from 10am to 2pm, giving the town an opportunity to celebrate all things water.

Posters and postcards are available at the library, Denude or Frome Town Hall, or can be downloaded from fromefamiliesfor thefuture.co.uk.

Pictured l-r: Lizzie and Gemma from Frome Families For The Future