Environment

Priceless possession or green desert?

Part of the flood plain of the river Wye, the Rye is a very special place to very many people in our town.  Pictured here, even during the unusual floods of 2014, its natural beauty is apparent.

Back in 1964-5 the Rye Protection Society (whose members later formed the High Wycombe Society) campaigned to prevent a planned new road being built across its corner.  An account of their campaign can be found in a special edition of our Newsletter and a related article in our Autumn 2013 newsletter .  In 2015 we celebrated the Golden Anniversary of their achievement in saving the Rye for future generations.

The High Wycombe Society keeps a watchful eye on The Rye, its surroundings, and other green spaces in the town.  We share concerns when appropriate with local council representatives, other agencies and ‘stakeholders’.

Shown here, on “the Dyke”, the stretch of water on the Southern edge of the Rye, are a number of islands recently created to support wildlife and give shelter to the fish population.

Two publications about The Rye can be bought at Pann Mill on our Open Days while stocks last: the first is often chosen as a souvenir by those taking part in the High Wycombe Society’s “Water Trail” a two-mile circular walk guided by one of our experts on the subject; the second is a booklet covering subjects of more general interest including episodes from its history.  As stocks are running low, we will soon be considering whether to create a new offering.  If there are any would-be volunteers with thoughts on this please get in touch.

Things to be seen around The Rye include:

At the end of The Dyke where the waterfall  feeds the back stream.   An area has been fenced off to enable the new planting to become established.

The High Wycombe Society is a partner of the Revive the Wye initiative, and has long campaigned for the deculverting of the river wherever possible through the town.  Our vision for the town includes  a healthy river running through it.