CONSERVATORS OF THE RIVER CAM
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Latest Information Updates
🛶 Berky Weed Clearance — Baits Bite to Jesus Lock
Date: 7/07/2025
Earlier today, the MC boat’s crane boom rams sustained damage during routine weed removal work near Bottisham Lock.
To continue operations, the contractors will be deploying the Conver and Truxor machines to clear floating weed. Please note that this will extend the duration of the task, as both machines must travel upstream to deposit the cut weed.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to resolve this issue and maintain the quality of our navigation.
Date: 15/07/2025
The Conservancy acknowledges ongoing difficulties for both rowers and powered vessels caused by excessive weed growth and residual weed matting along the Longreach section of the River Cam. These conditions have raised concerns from the Cambridge Rowing Association regarding the feasibility of the upcoming Bumps races.
Our contractors, River and Rural, are working diligently to maintain safe conditions for the event. They are actively coordinating with organisers to support a suitable race environment.
It is expected that weed clearance from Baits Bite Lock to the Fen Road car park will be completed by the end of the day on 15 July. Follow-up removal of cut weed rafts is scheduled to conclude by end of day Wednesday, 16 July. Ongoing site assessments will be undertaken jointly by contractors and event organisers to ensure readiness and monitor progress.
Previous notice: 02/07/2025
The weed harvester, which has been engaged in weed cutting today has had repeated mechanical failures. However the contractors are working hard to resolve problems as they arise and all efforts are being made to continue weed cutting. Both the Conservators and contractors recognise the importance of cutting back the weed along the river, particularly between Baits Bite Lock and Jesus Lock where the weed growth has been a significant challenge to river users over the past weeks.
Due to the age of the weed cutting harvester and the weed cutter currently at work downstream of Baits Bite Lock, there is a steady increase in the risk of mechanical failure and increasing costs to repair. Conservators continue to seek an affordable solution that will prove to be a reliable resource in efforts to manage the river weeds.
Business Consultant
The Conservators of the River Cam are seeking a skilled and strategic Business Consultant to support the development of a robust, financially sustainable future for the organisation. This short-term consultancy will focus on shaping strategic direction, identifying commercial opportunities, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. A more detailed description of the role can be found here.
To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter by 8 August to info@camconservators.org.uk. Interviews will be arranged by the end of August.
Fund Britain’s Waterways comes to Baitsbite Lock on 3rd August (11:00)
FUND BRITAIN’S WATERWAYS is a national campaign to help secure the future of Britain’s inland Rivers and Canals. GOBA are supporting this campaign to raise awareness that Government funding cuts to the waterways is a real threat to not only the Great Ouse system but waterways across the country
FBW are now planning to bring the campaign back to our area with a flotilla to Baitsbite Lock on the Cam on Sunday 3rd August. READ MORE
Temporary Closure of Baits Bite Lock and Jesus Lock
Follow link to the Lock Islands 2024 page for further information and FAQ's
Statement on weed cutting, towpath, and trees
30th June 2025
Weed-cutting
Upstream of Baits Bite Lock
The Conservators are aware of the increased growth of weed along the river and can now confirm that the weed harvester, Berky, has undergone significant repairs to ensure that she can continue to carry out weed-cutting in this area. It is anticipated that this will be ongoing for a 3 week period.
Downstream of Baits Bite Lock
Weed cutting is being carried out by a small weed cutting vessel which lacks the ability to harvest on the same run, making this a slower process. Drifting weeds will be cleared up at regular intervals.
Towpath
The Conservancy owns the towpath but has a Permissive Path Agreement with Cambridgeshire County Council that makes them responsible for provision and maintenance of the actual path, and the surrounding shrub and grass maintenance.
To report an issue with the towpath, please go directly to Cambridgeshire County Council
The Conservancy receives no funding to maintain the land but will ensure that those using the navigation will not be disadvantaged by the condition of the bank.
Trees
Members of the public experiencing an issue with low hanging branches or fallen branches while using the towpath should contact the Conservancy at info@camconservancy.org and we will arrange for an investigation and removal if necessary.
Navigation
The Conservancy is currently focusing its resource on stabilising Baits Bite lock and reopening the navigation.
Clayhithe 48 hour visitor mooring - partial closure
Update: 21/05/2024
A gap has been identified between the bank and concrete caping along the revetments at the 48 hour mooring . The visitor mooring is therefore partially closed at the upstream end, to ensure public safety.
Inland Waterways Association - News
Fund Britain's Waterways
Petition · Fund Britain's Waterways - United Kingdom - Change.org
Help us urge the Prime Minister not to stand by but to ensure the government takes action today to help safeguard Britain’s canals and rivers now and for future generations. We, the undersigned, ask that the Prime Minister acknowledges the many social, economic and environmental benefits that Britain’s inland waterways provide and gives assurance that the government will intervene, where ...
Latest IWA news releases and site links:
27/07/2025
IWA calls for urgent action as Cam Conservancy faces crisis - The Inland Waterways Association
Report on the 2025 Fund Britain's Waterways Flotilla of Boats:
Fund Britain's Waterways - Parliament Photo Reports
Further information on broader IWA campaigning is available here.