Sam Jones, a Shropshire campaigner who swims, kayaks and fishes on the River Teme, has launched a petition seeking greater legal protection after reporting declines in fish and insect populations and an influx of non-native species. The Teme — an SSSI since 1996 — was rated 'Poor' for water quality in 2024 and 2025. Jones cites the River Wye's recent cross-border rights charter as a precedent; the petition has collected more than 1,000 signatures. The Environment Agency urged the public to report any pollution concerns so it can investigate and act.
Campaigner Seeks Legal Protection as River Teme Shows Signs of Becoming 'Unwell'
The River Teme's source is in Felindre, Swansea, and it joins the River Severn in Worcester [Getty Images]
A Shropshire resident has launched a petition seeking stronger legal protection for the River Teme after observing what he describes as an increasingly "unwell" waterway.
Local Campaigner Raises Alarm
Sam Jones, who swims, kayaks and fishes on the Teme, says he has noticed declines in aquatic life and an "invasion" of non-native plants and animals. He reports changes to insect hatches, fewer rising trout and declining numbers of roach, along with altered invertebrate communities and reduced biodiversity along the riverbanks.
"Over the years I've seen decline," Jones said. "It's 30 years since it's been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest... we ought to bring the focus back to what we have on our doorsteps."
Petition and Precedent
Inspired by the River Wye — which in May became the first river in the UK to be given cross-border rights from source to sea — Jones has started a petition that has gathered more than 1,000 signatures. He says the Wye charter sets a precedent for giving rivers specific rights intended to guide long-term protection and recovery.
- The Right To Flow And Perform Natural Functions
- The Right To Biodiversity
- The Right To Be Free From Pollution
- The Right To Be Supported By A Healthy Catchment
- The Right To Regenerate
- The Right To Representation
Official Status And Water Quality
The River Teme was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1996. Its water quality classification was recorded as 'Poor' in both 2024 and 2025, a status that has prompted concern among local users and conservationists.
Environment Agency Response
An Environment Agency spokesperson acknowledged how much the local community values the Teme and its tributaries. "We take our role in cleaning up our rivers seriously and encourage anyone to report any environmental or pollution concerns to us as soon as possible so we can take appropriate action," the spokesperson said.
What This Means Locally
Jones argues that communities, businesses and river users in the catchment should be engaged in protecting the Teme. The petition aims to bring renewed focus to the river's condition and push for legal and practical measures that would support recovery and long-term health.
How to help: Report pollution or environmental concerns to the Environment Agency and consider supporting local conservation initiatives or the petition to raise awareness and momentum for restoration.
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