Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project (GCCSP) Launch Conference.
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Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project (GCCSP) Launch Conference.

  • ALL AGES

Join us at the GCCSP Launch Conference for a day of inspiring talks, innovative ideas, and a shared passion for preserving our chalk streams

By Anglia Ruskin University

Date and time

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:00 - 16:00 GMT+1.

Location

ARU Cambridge

East Road Cambridge CB1 1PT United Kingdom

Agenda

10:00 AM

Welcome

Emma Dominic - Anglia Ruskin University

Human Pressures on Cambridgeshire’s Chalk Aquifer

Dr Steve Boreham - University of Cambridge


Chalk aquifers are the life source of our spring-fed streams, yet they face growing strain from a combination of abstraction, land use intensification, and urban development. Dr Boreham will explore ...

Sediment and Turbidity: Impacts and Mitigation Strategies

Dr Tory Milner - Keele University


Fine sediment and suspended solids are among the most pervasive threats to chalk stream ecology, smothering gravels, clouding water, and degrading habitats for invertebrates and spawning fish. Dr Mil...

Brown Trout and Spawning Habitat: Science-led Restoration

Dr Toby Carter - ARU


Brown trout are emblematic of healthy chalk streams, but their populations depend on specific conditions: cool, oxygen-rich water; unimpeded flows; and clean, well-sorted gravels for spawning. Dr Car...

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Lunch Break - Refreshments

Emerging Pollutants: Microplastics, PFAS, and Heavy Metals

Dr Gerbrandus (Baz) Boots - ARU


New classes of pollutants are challenging conventional water quality frameworks. Microplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and legacy heavy metals persist in aquatic environments and...

Macroinvertebrates as Bioindicators

Dr Alvin Helden - ARU


Aquatic macroinvertebrates, such as mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, are sensitive indicators of water quality and habitat condition. Dr Helden will unpack the life cycles of these species and ...

Macrophytes and Chalk Stream Resilience


Submerged aquatic plants are more than just visual features — they underpin the entire ecological function of chalk streams. From oxygenating water and stabilising sediment to providing refuge and fo...

Soil Legacy Risks and Reservoir Development in South Cambridgeshire

Dr Mike Foley - Cam Valley Forum


With years of experience as a dedicated citizen scientist, Dr Foley will share a personal and inspiring account of monitoring water quality in the Cam Valley. His talk will delve into the power of co...

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Q&A

About this event

  • Event lasts 6 hours
  • ALL AGES
  • No venue parking

Welcome to the Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project Launch!

Join us at ARU Cambridge for an exciting event dedicated to preserving our local chalk streams. This one-day conference will bring together experts, practitioners, researchers, and policy stakeholders to explore strategies for protecting and restoring chalk streams across Greater Cambridge. Attendees will discuss the latest threats, examine practical and policy-based responses, and promote cross-sector dialogue to help safeguard these globally rare freshwater ecosystems.

There will also be the chance to get involved and sign up to our citizen science program where you could help us with water quality testing, fixed-point photography, sediment trapping and erosion pin monitoring.

About the Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project Chalk streams are rare and ecologically rich habitats that have shaped the landscapes and culture of Greater Cambridge. Once pristine, many are now severely degraded and under threat. The GCCSP explores the complex pressures facing these ecosystems - using real sites to study habitat loss, biodiversity decline, and water quality challenges. This initiative brings together conservation, research, and community action to restore and protect these unique freshwater environments for future generations.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to support our precious chalk streams!

Location: Sci105 and The Atrium

W3W: ///squad.submit.boots

Grid Ref: TL 45982 58325

East Road Entrance: Enter the university campus through the east road entrance and walk straight through the university until you reach the iCenter and Library. Turn left and follow the room around until you meet doors which lead you outside. Just off to the right, ahead of you you will see stairs down to the Atrium (wheelchair access available further up on the right) which is part of the Science and Engineering Faculty Building.

Broad Street Entrance: Walk down broad street and continue past the Lord Ashcroft building on your right. Further up to the right you will see access gates into the university courtyard. On your left is the science Atrium.

Note: the agenda for the day could be subject to change but we are aiming for 10.00am-4pm

Frequently asked questions

Where can I park?

Queen Anne Terrace Car Park - 5 min walk and Grafton East Car Park - 5 min walk

Will there be refreshments?

Yes there will be food and beverages available for lunch and refreshments after the talks.

Do I need a ticket or can I turn up on the day?

Due to limited capacity within the lecture theatre, we have designed this to be a first-come-first-serve basis. Please secure a ticket before you arrive. We cannot guarantee there will be availability on the day for walk-ins

Who is the intended target audience?

Anyone and everyone! Members of the public; Environmental researchers and students; Water companies and infrastructure planners; Local authorities and statutory regulators; NGOs and conservation practitioners; Farmers, landowners, and rural advisors; citizen scientists and local volunteers.

Is there disability access?

Yes! There is wheelchair and disability access right of the main entrance. Once inside the building, we can direct you to the accessibility door into the lecture theatre.

How do I get involved with the citizen science program?

On the day there will be an opportunity to sign up. equally you can email nature@cambridge.gov.uk and we will forward you the volunteer form to submit your preferences.

Organised by

FreeJul 16 · 10:00 GMT+1