During the summer months we should remember the Paddlers' Code – particularly when it comes protecting wildlife.
Salmon, for example, are a species that are struggling due to pollution in areas where they live and breed.
Improved water quality is what we all want and something Paddle UK is campaigning for.
What is the Paddlers' Code and how does it help protect nature?
Richard Atkinson, Access and Environment Lead, said:
“Salmon are a key fish species and an iconic indicator of a healthy, clean environment.
“They are highly valued by the general public and, of course, paddlers who enjoy recreational activities on our rivers.
“There are 49 rivers in England and 31 rivers in Wales that regularly support salmon but wild Atlantic salmon are in crisis.”
Their decline is not the fault of paddlers or other recreational users of our waterways, but there are things we can do to help.
- Avoid gravel beds in rivers where possible.
- Gravel beds may hold precious spawning grounds for salmon and other fish species.
- Disturbance of them can be considered a criminal act.
Whale and Dolphin Conservation has also appealed for help over the summer.
Disturbance is a threat to marine animals and paddlers can help by keeping a distance from them.
Not staying too long when near marine animals is also important.
Also, reporting a disturbance is crucial.
If you see a boat getting too close, for example, you are encouraged to contact the police on 101.