Working together for a cleaner, healthier River Foss
The River Foss Society is a community organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing the River Foss and its surrounding environment for the benefit of wildlife, local communities and future generations.
About the River Foss Society
We are a volunteer-led organisation bringing together people who care about the River Foss and its future. Through practical conservation work, environmental monitoring, education and community activities, we help improve the health of the river while encouraging people to enjoy and value this important part of York's natural heritage.
Monitoring the River Foss
Our volunteers collect data and carry out surveys throughout the year to better understand the condition of the river and the wildlife that depends upon it.
Chemistry
Monitoring water quality helps us understand the condition of the river and identify environmental pressures affecting the River Foss.
Biology
Sampling aquatic invertebrates provides valuable information about river health and helps us assess changes over time.
Biodiversity
Recording birds, mammals, insects and plants helps us build a clearer picture of the rich wildlife living along the River Foss corridor.
Get Involved
Whether you can spare an hour or a whole day, every contribution helps us protect and improve the River Foss for wildlife and future generations.
Become a Member
Support the Society's work and stay informed about activities, projects and events.
Support Us
Help us continue our work through donations, partnerships and community support.
Volunteer
Join practical conservation activities, monitoring projects and community events throughout the year.
More than Just a River
The River Foss Society is as much about people as it is about the river itself. From guided walks and talks to social gatherings and special events, our activities bring together people with a shared interest in the River Foss and its environment.
DISCOVER THE PAST
Our river, our heritage
Explore the history of the River Foss and the people who have cared for it. Discover how the river, its navigation, locks and surrounding landscape have changed over time, or trace the story of the River Foss Society and more than fifty years of conservation and community involvement.
Latest News & Events
1 April 2026
York City Nature Challenge
We're participating again in the York City Nature Challenge and we'd like you to join in! No expertise […]
22 June 2025
Balsam Bashing
The Himalayan Balsam season has finished - thank you everyone who helped us whether in organised sessions or […]
21 March 2023
Wanted: Committed Citizen Scientists to Help Monitor the Biological Health of the River Foss by Kick Sampling
The River Foss Society is part of an important Citizen Science project, working in partnership with the Environment […]