We are one of the Sister Rivers of East Devon – the REDs

FORA has been working with six East Devon river groups – known collectively as the Rivers of East Devon (the REDs, to reflect the colour of many East Devon rivers when full of red Devon soil run-off).

In February, East Devon District Council unanimously passed a Motion Protecting and Recognising the Rights of East Devon Rivers. The REDs presented its ‘asks’ to EDDC councillors, pressing the Council to take action to turn the good intent behind the Motion into tangible action within the Council’s powers and remit. We’re delighted that this has opened up a positive dialogue with EDDC and we see it as a first step to widening our sphere of influence.

This community catchment collaboration brings together six distinct "sister" systems across our region: the Lim, Axe, Sid, Otter, Clyst, and Exe. Together, these rivers form the lifeblood of East Devon, carving through our rolling landscapes, sustaining diverse ecosystems, and directly linking our local communities to the sea.

From east to west, each of these sister rivers possesses its own unique character and ecological charm. Our own River Axe winds gracefully down from Dorset through Axminster to its historic estuary at Axmouth. To our east lies the short and lively River Lim, rushing through Lyme Regis, while to our west, the River Sid stands proud as one of the shortest complete river systems in England.

Moving further across the county, the River Otter cuts through its namesake valley toward Budleigh Salterton, while the River Clyst and the grand River Exe converge at Topsham, feeding the internationally important habitats of the Exe Estuary.

Understanding the River Axe means recognising that no river exists in isolation. The environmental challenges we face—and the conservation victories we celebrate – are shared by all of our sister waterways. By collaborating under the REDs banner, local river groups, volunteers, and scientists can share vital data, coordinate wildlife protection strategies and tackle water quality issues on a truly landscape-wide scale.

As Friends of the River Axe, we champion not just our own banks, but the collective health of this entire beautiful river family.

Image courtesy of https://catchmentbasedapproach.org/get-involved/east-devon/