Winter is a restorative time for our rivers

The drop in temperature means more than cosy jumpers and hot drinks; it plays a vital role in restoring balance to our rivers and the ecosystems that depend on them, says The Rivers Trust

As the days grow shorter, temperatures drop. Soon we’ll be scraping ice off windscreens and, perhaps, stepping into the invigorating chill of cooler rivers. But the drop in temperature means more than cosy jumpers and hot drinks; it plays a vital role in restoring balance to our rivers and the ecosystems that depend on them.

After a long, dry summer, life in our rivers and ecosystems desperately needs cooler waters. As temperatures begin to fall, pressures amplified by hot periods will ease. Lower temperatures allow the water to hold more dissolved oxygen, which is key in supporting fish and aquatic invertebrates. The natural relief that comes with the change of season is welcome, but with climate change making heatwaves more frequent, the importance of maintaining cool, healthy rivers has never been greater.

Rising temperatures and low flows create a literal ripple effect. Shallow waters break into segments, heat up, and concentrate pollutants, all perfect conditions for algae to thrive. But it’s not just wildlife that feels the impact. Cooler, cleaner rivers are vital for us, too, providing safe drinking water, supporting agriculture, keeping communities cool, and allow us all to enjoy the rivers we love.

The Rivers Trust is fighting for cooler waterways brimming with healthy fish and vibrant biodiversity. They’re seeing fantastic projects making a difference. From planting riverside trees to provide shade to wiggling straightened rivers to slow the flow, these projects help to restore ecosystems and create healthy blue spaces.