The River Yealm flows for twelve and a half miles from Yealm Head on Dartmoor to the sea at Noss Mayo. While parts of it are enchantingly beautiful, the river and its surrounding lands support less wildlife than they once did due to human use and environmental changes. This loss and fragmentation of habitats reduce the area's resilience to climate change and hinder species' movement across the landscape. The Yealm Estuary to Moor (YEM) project aims to restore and reconnect these vital fragments of nature.
The YEM Project is a long-term community initiative dedicated to enhancing the health of the River Yealm and promoting biodiversity along its entire length by creating a continuous wildlife corridor. By collaborating with expert professional organisations and dedicated volunteers, the YEM Project seeks to assess the extent of the challenges and identify opportunities for restoring both the river and the adjoining lands. Together, we aim to revitalise this precious ecosystem for future generations.
YEM coordinates an active Citizen Science Investigation programme which involves 50 volunteers, known as the "Yealm Dippers". Volunteers sample …
