As noted last month, groundwater levels are following a very similar pattern to those of 2011 when flow through the Chalfonts was lost and we went into the “drought” of 2012.  Some sages have already opined that the river will disappear again this year.  Me? – I’m still sitting on the fence (bank?) with fingers crossed thinking it still looks quite good at the moment.  Your bets??

Our last work party was indeed different from the norm.  When it eventually caught, the long promised bonfire of accumulated rubbish at Chalfont St Giles burned enthusiastically and stokers Dave and Stuart plus those trying to bring branches etc. fast enough to keep it going were dry and very warm – none of this standing about in the cold water in the rain, which I know you enjoy.  We hope the walkers now appreciate being able to see some more of the river.  As does seem to be the norm recently, we could, of course, have done more if the team on the day had been larger.

You may recall that we had a very successful day last year when a group from a local branch of an international company worked with us at Bottom House Farm as their “Community Day”.  I have now been approached by two other companies for similar this year and will be trying to put plans together for days in June or July.  I’m wondering about possibly tidying Mobwell Pond, north of Great Missenden – “source of The Misbourne”, currently dry, and/or around Mill Lane at Amersham.  If you are interested in being involved with one or both of these exercises, please let me know.

Diarising events is challenging at present, but likely dates for next work parties are afternoon of Saturday June 13th and morning of Sunday June 21st.

We are planning a “summer picnic (bring your own) and games” to follow a light work party on Sunday 19th July.  This will be at some conveniently grassy riverside location:  again, please let me know if you can join us.