A major conservation project to map the River Holme catchment has begun – and volunteers can get involved in helping to survey the river.

River Holme Connections have appointed Ryan Lloyd, a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) student at Sheffield Hallam University, to map the River Holme. The student placement is expected to last until September 2019. It will involve Ryan using his mapping skills to build a clear picture of the River Holme catchment and the plants and animals that inhabit the river. This will help with future conservation projects.

Simon Hirst, River Holme Connections River Steward, says: “This project will transform the work we do at River Holme Connections. It will pinpoint native animals and plants, as well as identifying outfall pipes and barriers to fish migration. It will also identify the exact location of invasive species and allow us to target our conservation work more accurately and effectively.”

Ryan already has a great deal of work experience to his name, having worked for the RSPB as an assistant warden and project officer. He now lives in Meltham and is looking forward to giving something back to his local community. Ryan says: “I believe learning more about how the wildlife and people interact within this key habitat is an important part of managing the river network. I’m looking forward to working with our volunteers on this exciting project.”

Ryan is looking for volunteers to help him map the River Holme. Anyone who is interested in taking part in the project should email Ryan on GIS@riverholmeconnections.org or call 01484 661756.

Ryan’s appointment is part of the charity’s Our Holme project. Funded by Cummins Foundation, Our Holme aims to educate local communities about the river environment and the role we can all play in keeping our rivers healthy.