Community Engagement at Paddleboard Maidenhead
At Paddleboard Maidenhead, we dedicate many hours each week to local projects focused on nature and river conservation. If you share our passion and are interested in getting involved, we welcome support in various areas, including administration, hands-on projects, artistry, leadership, event attendance, grant applications, marketing, and fundraising. Please email Tara@paddleboardmaidenhead.uk or WhatsApp 07505 147957.
Friends of Ray Mill Island
Paddleboard Maidenhead is a proud co-founder of this community project. We are always looking for more volunteers to help with the re-wilding and beautification of the island. There are numerous exciting initiatives underway, and in 2026, we will begin the restoration of the stream that runs through the island. For more details, please visit our new website.
Wild Maidenhead
We are honoured to be associated with Wild Maidenhead and have developed a strong partnership with them and our Friends of Ray Mill Island initiative. We have consistently supported their efforts and attended their events for years. Through the Wild groups, we’ve connected with many passionate nature enthusiasts and experts, which allows us to continually learn and make informed choices that benefit both people and the planet.
Windsor RiverWatch
Join us on the second Monday evening of every month for our Windsor RiverWatch meetings. We discuss steps and events planned for the month that will positively impact our water quality and wildlife. Water testing at Boulters occurs weekly, thanks to Surfers Against Sewage and Windsor RiverWatch. Additionally, the ‘Flowerpots’ Thames swimming club swims daily – feel free to join the ‘Pots’ and get involved with WRW.
Ratty Returns with Wild Cookham
“Ratty” from *The Wind in the Willows* was a Water Vole, and their population has significantly declined since the release of American Minks, which are predators. This decline has severely impacted various river animal species. Our active team works year-round to ensure that released water voles can thrive and repopulate the area.
Berks and South Bucks Bats
Ray Mill Island provides a perfect habitat for bats, offering abundant trees, water, and low light pollution. Bats play a crucial role in controlling our insect population and are an important part of our ecosystem. Paddleboard Maidenhead has participated in installing 16 bat boxes on the island, providing various housing options for bats throughout the different seasons.
Filling Good
Filling Good is a local refill shop that enables you to purchase food and household products without contributing to the increasing plastic waste and chemicals that can end up in our water systems. All our equipment is washed and maintained with biodegradable products, and even our sunscreen and hand wash are planet-friendly. We prioritize walking, cycling, and carpooling to our paddling destinations whenever possible. You can learn more on our website.
Can Marketing Save the Planet
We are strong advocates of Michelle and Gemma’s work and podcasts. Their insights help us continue learning and connect with companies that prioritize the planet over mere profits, enabling us to make informed choices. Find out more on our website.
Our planet and its people are at the core of every business decision we make. While some choices are challenging, and finding sustainable options can sometimes seem impossible, we are committed to doing our best.