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Join us for another river restoration volunteer event on the River Wandle at Morden Hall Park on the 11th, 12th and 13th March. Historical landscaping and mill activities in the park had created a pair of dead straight, parallel, channels, devoid of character and variety of habitat. Together with the National Trust, we’ve already transformed the western channel, and now we plan to do the same on the eastern channel.Over 3 days we’ll be re-wiggling this canalised stretch of the river, to encourage natural processes of deposition and erosion, thereby improving the habitat for fish, invertebrates, reptiles and small mammals.
We’ll be installing large wood deflectors in the channel, secured in place with chestnut stakes. These divert the water to increase the flow, which in turn encourages scouring of the bed and creation of pools.
We’ll also be building in-channel berms using brash bundles and chestnut stakes. These help to re-meander the river by pinching the channel, which increases flow and erosion. Simultaneously, the flow through the berm itself is slowed. Slower flow means the river drops sediment and the berm silts up, eventually becoming land. Vegetation colonizes the reclaimed land and thus the habitat is transformed.
The work is quite physical, and we’ll be working in-channel, wearing chest waders, and life vests. The river is not too deep here – around 2-3ft at its deepest. We’ll be moving large logs into the channel, then using post knockers to drive the chestnut posts into the riverbed, and securing the logs and brash bundles with galvanized wire or rope.
Safety is our top priority, so full PPE will be provided, along with hot drinks, washing facilities and snacks. We’ll also give you all the information you need to ensure your safety and a memorable day. Places are limited and this event will be popular, so book your place today.
On the day, you’ll need to bring warm clothing, a packed lunch, and a desire to do something amazing for nature. We look forward to welcoming you.
Please make sure to book each of the 3 days separately. Thank you!
What to expect on the day
✅ A bit of physical exertion, alongside regular breaks
✅ Clear guidance from our team throughout
✅ A chance to learn more about river restoration
✅ A visible, lasting impact by the end of the day
No previous experience needed — just a willingness to get stuck in.
What to bring
Sturdy boots or wellies
Warm, weather-appropriate clothing
A packed lunch and water bottle
We’ll provide all tools, steel-toed waders, work gloves, plus tea, coffee and biscuits.
Event details
📍 Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, London Borough of Merton, SM4 5JD. What3Words ///haven.thin.year Google Maps pin – Morden Hall Grid reference – TQ260683
🚗 Parking available on site at the main Morden Hall Park car park.
👉 Booking is essential so we can plan tools and work safely.
Please RSVP using the blue ‘sign up’ button in the link below to secure your place: https://www.southeastriverstrust.org/event/river-restoration-event-morden-hall-park-river-wandle-3/
⏰ Booking closes on midnight on Monday 9th March.
Good to know:
The event going ahead is subject to weather conditions that week
In the event of severe weather, we’ll contact all attendees by email or phone
Please check your junk folder for confirmation emails
If you need to cancel or have questions, email [email protected]
Health, safety & privacy
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Morden Hall Park NT, Maidenhead Aquatics, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JG, United Kingdom, Merton
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