As sports, Canoeing and kayaking are widely regarded to have a benign environmental impact. It is however important for all paddlers to be aware of their responsibilities in helping ensure the environment is protected and enhanced for all.
British Canoeing would like to see the outdoors open to all sustainable recreational pursuits & to all responsible recreational users. This will enable the public to enjoy the health and well-being benefits of recreation in, on or beside water.
You can see their campaign Clear Access Clear Waters here.
Environmental help and advice
We’re here to raise awareness of the importance of our native species and their habitats in our water environment. We are also actively involved in efforts to improve water quality in our waters, benefiting the natural ecosystem and paddlers alike. Here is guidance on how you can get involved in environmental projects, as well as information on some of the common environmental issues affecting paddlers. Seal guidance
The following documents deal with aspects of Canoeing & the Environment
Wildlife watching in the Walney Channel Cumbria Wildlife trust advise that canoeists/kayakers can come ashore for a rest at the groyne at South East Point, so long as they remain close to the water’s edge and avoid any flocks of resting birds. To protect the dunes and nesting birds in this area you cannot access the hide from this landing point. Further north past the boundary wall of the reserve you can come ashore where ever you like. In addition they have recently (winter 2018) had very high levels of disturbance to the seals over the past few months – with about half as many resting on the beach as at this time last year, presumably scared away despite our efforts!
