Finchfield WatersideCare volunteers meet on the last Thursday of every month to take care of the Finchfield Brook which runs through the Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve from the Railway Walk to the Staffs-Worcester Canal, near Wightwick Mill Lock.
Volunteers clear litter from the brook, the banks and the footpath beside it. We cut back vegetation from the banks to allow light and air to the water and remove overhanging branches from the banks and the footpath. We monitor water quality and deal with Himalayan Balsam.
The Finchfield Brook floods the footpath in heavy rain. Currently we are seeking ways to alleviate the flooding with leaky dams, and ephemeral pools.
Finchfield WatersideCare volunteers are insured by Keep Britain Tidy. If you wish to join us come along to the WEC off Westacre Crescent on the last Thursday of the month at 10.30am to 12.30. Wear boots. WaterSide Care provides gloves, hi-vis gilet, litter-picker and tools for managing the brookside.