Massive Tree-Planting Initiative Targets River Pollution Cleanup

Major Tree-Planting Initiative to Cleanse River Water in South Devon

A transformative tree-planting project is underway at Ramsland Farm, located near Holbeton in South Devon, aiming to tackle pollution in the River Erme. The initiative, which involves planting 16,000 trees across a vast 190-acre landscape, is a key part of efforts to improve the water quality of the river and protect the environment.

The River Erme, which runs through South Devon, had previously been affected by pollution, leading to unsafe swimming conditions, particularly at Coastguards Beach, a popular bathing spot. Despite being awarded official bathing water status in 2024, tests conducted in the same year and into 2025 revealed that the water quality did not meet the required standards. The tree-planting project has been launched as part of a multi-faceted approach to clean up the river by addressing pollution sources and improving water filtration before it reaches these sensitive areas.

The goal is to create a natural solution that slows and filters water runoff, particularly during heavy rainfall. This will not only benefit the water quality but also offer essential shelter for livestock, ensuring a sustainable and integrated approach to land and water management.

Addressing River Pollution

The River Erme, like many rivers across the UK, has faced significant water pollution due to a combination of factors. One major contributor to river contamination is stormwater runoff, which often carries untreated sewage into water bodies, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Additionally, agricultural runoff, including manure, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, significantly contributes to water pollution. South West Water (SWW) estimates that approximately 30% of the pollution in rivers like the Erme comes from agricultural runoff.

However, this new initiative aims to mitigate these issues through a well-planned and long-term approach to environmental recovery. The key is to use nature-based solutions, like planting trees, which can absorb excess water, filter out harmful nutrients, and reduce soil erosion during extreme weather events.

At the heart of the project is landowner John Mildmay-White, who is deeply invested in ensuring the future health of the river and its surrounding environment. “As a resident here with three young boys, I am personally affected by the state of the river,” Mildmay-White explains. “When we learned that tests were showing unsafe water conditions, it was clear that we needed to do something substantial to change the situation.”

The Role of Tree Planting in Water Quality

The tree-planting project is being led by ecologist Robbie Phillips, who is overseeing the operation at Ramsland Farm. The initiative is part of a broader community forests project funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The aim is to enhance and enrich the environment while reducing pollutants from entering the water system.

Ramsland Farm, which is transitioning to organic farming, will benefit greatly from the addition of approximately 30 different species of native trees, as well as 25 varieties of fruit and nut-bearing trees. According to Phillips, even farms that do not use pesticides or chemical fertilizers are still vulnerable to runoff during extreme weather events. “By planting these trees, we are not only providing a natural barrier to protect the soil from erosion but also improving the quality of the water that eventually flows into the river,” he says.

Over time, the trees will help capture loose sediment and soil, while also filtering out harmful nutrients and contaminants before they reach the water courses. This will result in cleaner, safer water flowing into the River Erme, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for both humans and wildlife who depend on the river’s health.

Raising Awareness through Community Action

To spread the word about the importance of river clean-up projects and raise funds for the initiative, Mildmay-White has committed to running a marathon from the River Erme to London. This 10-day run will not only raise awareness about the pollution issues in the area but also highlight the work being done to protect the water and the environment.

The South West Water company has been actively involved in addressing pollution in the region. It is working closely with the Holbeton Parish Council and local developers to reduce stormwater overflow incidents, which release raw sewage into the river. There are currently three stormwater overflows in Holbeton, Modbury, and Ivybridge, all of which affect the River Erme. In addition, SWW is collaborating with local farmers through its Upstream Thinking program, encouraging them to reduce the amount of sediment, chemicals, and nutrients entering the river.

While progress is being made, the community and local organizations, like Wild About the River Erme, continue to push for improvements to the sewer network and other infrastructure, ensuring that every effort is made to reduce the sources of pollution.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the River Erme

Although the tree-planting initiative will take several years to show its full effects, the long-term benefits for the river and surrounding ecosystem are expected to be substantial. Not only will the trees play a significant role in improving water quality, but they will also provide valuable habitats for wildlife and increase biodiversity in the region.

In the coming years, the fruits of this work may even include walnuts, as some of the trees planted will eventually bear fruit and nuts. Phillips envisions a sustainable and mutually beneficial system where the farm and the river can thrive together.

The project represents a significant step in the right direction for the River Erme, providing a beacon of hope for communities and wildlife that rely on clean water. With continued collaboration between local stakeholders, including landowners, the government, and utility companies, there is optimism that the river’s health can be restored and maintained for generations to come.

Source BBC