Public perception of freshwater quality with particular reference to rivers in England and Wales

1. The Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, and Agenda 21, have stressed that public participation in environment decision making is fundamental for sustainable development. It is important, therefore, to understand how members of the public view environmental resources such as fresh waters. 2. Surveys and qualitative research with various 'publics' show that fresh waters, particularly lakes and rivers, are highly valued as recreational and amenity resources and for nature conservation. 3. Members of the public regard rivers in England and Wales as affected by serious problems; they are particularly concerned about pollution and littering, but also about the impacts on rivers of engineering works and low flow conditions. 4. The research suggests that the public perceives the 'quality' of freshwater environments in a broad and holistic way, and there is evidence of strong support from local publics for integrated river restoration initiatives such as The River Restoration Project's demonstration project on the River Skerne in Darlington.