What is a Catchment?

A catchment is a defined area and in this case is used to identify the estuary itself and the area of land from which fresh water sources enter the estuary.

The purpose of defining a catchment is to enable management of the land and water for the benefit of both people and the environment.

The river Dee is covered by two catchment partnerships, the Middle Dee and the Tidal Dee.

The Tidal Dee Catchment Partnership is a group of organisations who have a vested interest in the management of the Dee Estuary for both people and wildlife. Their vision is that the Dee Estuary is clean and full of wildlife, enjoyed by people and sustainably managed. The long-term working vision is that the Dee Estuary is managed collaboratively, connecting two countries and their communities, and celebrated for its healthy natural ecosystem and clean water.