About the National Collection of Freshwater Sites

What is it?

The National Collection is a 'living' online archive of photographs depicting freshwater locations from across the UK.

The National Collection demonstrates the importance of these sites to people and wildlife - and the need to protect them - so we want to make sure all parts of the country are well represented.

How did it come about?

The National Collection was born from the UK contribution to the United Nationas International Year of freshwater in 2003.

A competition was organised encouraging people to submit their photographs to win great prizes. The many contributions were then examined carefully by a committee of selected judges and the winners announced at the 10th September 2003 'Water for life – bringing people together' event.

How can I take Part?

Help us carry on building this unique visual record! Just photograph your favourite freshwater site and send it in to us with up to 100 words on what it means to you using the 'Add to the Collection' tool. We'll select the photos that represent the wide diversity of freshwater sites from across the UK and upload them onto the National Collection website.

What is a freshwater site?

A freshwater site could be your garden pond or a nearby stream, river, canal or lake. It might be a place where you fish, sail, went on holiday to or walk the dog everyday! It could be a wetland habitat which you help to conserve.

What will the National Collection be used for?

The National Collection of freshwater sites will last for years after the UN International Year of Freshwater has passed. It will be available for use in projects, for virtual touring, research and as a simple means of protecting your local freshwater site.

As well as being a 'living' archive for the country to enjoy, the National Collection will also help people working on legislation that protects and improves our freshwater resources.