An exciting new chapter for the River Tamar is beginning, and Drip Drip is inviting everyone who cares about the river to be part of it.

Drip Drip (Friends of the River Tamar) is delighted to announce that the Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) and international law firm Simmons & Simmons have begun work on a pioneering legal project to help give the River Tamar a stronger voice in decisions affecting its future.

Building on our campaign for Rights for the Tamar, ELF and Simmons & Simmons are developing a legally robust framework that could help turn the principles of a River Charter into practical tools for protecting the river, its wildlife and the communities that depend upon it.

Drip Drip will contribute local knowledge, evidence and community perspectives to this work. The Tamar is a pilot for an approach that could eventually provide a model for other rivers across the country.

More than words on paper

Despite existing environmental protections, our rivers continue to suffer from pollution, habitat damage and ecological decline.

The legal project will explore how existing laws, policies and responsibilities can be used more effectively to protect the Tamar, particularly in decisions about planning, development and environmental management.

The ambition is to create something that goes beyond a declaration of good intentions – a practical framework that local authorities, environmental organisations and communities can use to stand up for the river.

What does the Tamar mean to you?

Alongside the legal work, we want to hear from people who know, love and care about the Tamar.

Perhaps you have childhood memories of swimming, fishing or exploring its banks. Perhaps you enjoy watching its wildlife, work on the river, or simply find peace in its landscape.

You may have witnessed changes that concern you, or have hopes for what the river might become.

We want to hear your stories, memories, experiences and hopes for the Tamar's future.

You don't need to be an environmental expert. Your personal connection to the river is what matters.

These stories will help bring the voices of our communities into the project, reminding us that the Tamar is much more than a watercourse to be managed. It is part of our shared lives, landscape and heritage.

Share your Tamar story

Whether it's a few sentences or a longer reflection, we'd love to hear from you. Photographs are welcome too.

Please send your contributions to: dripdripsecretary@gmail.com

Let us know whether you're happy for your story to be shared publicly or would prefer it to remain within the project.

A river worth speaking up for

The Tamar has shaped our communities and landscape for generations. With the legal expertise of ELF and Simmons & Simmons, and the knowledge and experiences of those who care about the river, we have an opportunity to help shape a better future for it.

The Tamar has shaped our stories. Now your stories can help shape its future.

Read more: Rights for the Tamar – Our Manifesto

Drip Drip – Friends of the River Tamar
www.dripdriptamar.org