GET INVOLVED
There are so many ways to get involved with helping to make the River Colne a nicer, healthier place for all.
Take a look below to discover what events and volunteering opportunities available.
If you would like information in another language or have other Web Content Accessibility needs, please email emily.evans@groundwork.org.uk
Berm Maintenance and Maintenance, October to December 2026, Oxhey Park
Join Groundwork East and other like minded volunteers to learn more about your local river and how volunteer work can make a huge difference to the natural environment.
We will be adding 'berms' to the river, woody structures that create bends in the river. These help recreate the natural shape of Chalk Streams like the Colne, where they have been artificially straightened in the past.
This creates and extends habitats used by spawning fish and invertebrates, and the berms themselves trap silt which then allows native plants to grow.
River Colne Litter Pick, 24 October 2026, Tesco Extra (Watford)
Join Groundwork East for a community litter pick along the River Colne. Together, we'll help keep the local environment clean, prevent rubbish from entering the rare chalk stream, and learn about the river's fascinating history and heritage along the way.
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All equipment will be provided
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Walk up to 1 mile
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Suitable for ages 16+ (with a guardian) and adults 18
River Colne Litter Pick, 29 October 2026, Oxhey Park
This half-term Groundwork East will be holding their popular free nature play sessions.
Learn more about your local greenspace and the River Colne through scavenger hunts, natural art and play.
Suitable for ages 3-9 with parents/guardians. Younger and older siblings welcome.
River Colne Festive Gathering, 1 December 2026, The Watford Pump House
Join Groundwork East and Watford Borough Council for a festive celebration of the amazing work done by volunteers and project partners over 2026!
Whether you are a regular volunteer or interested in getting started, enjoy some mince pies on us and celebrate the amazing work done during 2026. We will also talk about opportunities coming up in 2027 and how you can get more involved.
We will bring the mince pies; you can bring a festive jumper!
Groundwork's Green Doctors
Groundwork’s Green Doctors provide free, one-to-one energy efficiency and money-saving advice for Hertfordshire households. Get practical guidance on reducing energy use, draught-proofing, and understanding bills. They also offer referrals to local services like debt advice and food banks.
Eligibility: over 65s, households with children under 5, benefit recipient, people with physical or mental health conditions
Rediscovering the River Colne: Walk Leaders
Do you love Watford and enjoy sharing stories? We’re looking for passionate people to become paid walk leaders for new community walks along the River Colne. You don’t need to be a historian, just someone who enjoys connecting with people, telling stories, and inspiring pride in our community. Whether it’s nature, history, or local life, your enthusiasm can bring the river’s story to life. Join us and help others see Watford in a new way.
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Rediscovering the River Colne: Corporate Team Building and Health Walks
Multiple sites across Watford, 2025/26.
As part of the Rediscovering the River Colne, there are opportunities for businesses to get involved with practical conservation, invasive species clearances and litter picks. Enquire today to discuss pricing and availability of these opportunities.
Rediscovering the River Colne: Green Gym Conservation
Held at Watford Rugby Club on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am-1pm. Green gym is a volunteer-led group who run a range of conservation activities along the River Colne. Green Gym is free for anyone to join in, and make a difference in their local community. The activities suit all ranges of fitness.
Rediscovering the River Colne: Friends of Oxhey Park
Oxhey Park, Second Saturday of each month, 10.30am, March-November (except August). Friends of Oxhey park are a volunteer group who aim to make the park a safer and more welcoming space for families and anyone who wishes to enjoy their local area. Friends of Oxhey Park are a social group who welcome anyone that would like to take part.
Rediscovering the River Colne: Oxhey Village Walking Group
Oxhey Village Green, Every Monday at 6:30pm, Get outside and meet with a group of like-minded people to explore the local area! This enthusiastic and social group, open to people of all abilities, meet each Monday to walk to 5k (or however far you can go)!