The rivers and streams of the Peak District provide sound, movement, contrast and variation in the landscape.  Be it the mirror reflection of the moorland in the Ladybower Reservoir or the rushing of the stream over gritstone boulders - our rivers and streams are an essential part of the landscape.

Peak District rivers support an amazing diversity of wildlife, some internationally rare.  One moss species is found nowhere else in the world.  As well as supporting wildlife, water is also essential to people and we have used the rivers of the Peak District over thousands of years.  From cotton mills to reservoirs, we have turned the high rainfall of the Peak District to our advantage.

Today, the reservoirs and rivers are a focus for recreation and conservation, as well as supplying the surrounding towns and cities with clean water.  Water quality is generally improving, although the river corridors and their wildlife have suffered for a variety of reasons.  In particular, the water vole and white-clawed crayfish are under threat. 

To find out more follow these links:

What is the history of our rivers?
Why are rivers important?
Where has all the wildlife gone?
What is being done to save our rivers?
What can I do?