River Cam, Gloucestershire facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Cam |
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The River Cam near Cambridge (Gloucestershire)
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 Location within Gloucestershire
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| Country | England |
| Counties | Gloucestershire |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Gloucester and Sharpness Canal 51°44′38″N 2°22′48″W / 51.7438°N 2.38°W |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The River Cam is a small river located in Gloucestershire, England. It flows for about 20 kilometers (12 miles) towards the east. This river eventually joins the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal.
Contents
River's Journey
The River Cam begins high up on the Cotswolds hills. Its source is above the village of Uley. From there, it flows through several towns and villages. These include Dursley, Cam, and Cambridge. The river then reaches the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal. It acts as a natural water supply for the canal.
River Name Change
Before the River Cam reaches the town of Dursley, it has a different name. In this upper part, it is known as the River Ewelme.
Past Connection to the Severn
For many years, the River Cam flowed into a much larger river. Before 1827, it joined the River Severn at a place called Frampton Pill. This area is near Frampton on Severn. However, after the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal was built in 1827, the Cam's path changed. It was then directed to flow into the canal instead.
River Improvements
In 2014, some important work was done on the River Cam. The Environment Agency dug a new channel. They also created a special pass for fish and eels. This work happened just east of Cambridge.
Local Concerns
Even though the new pass helped wildlife, some local people were not happy. They felt that money should have been spent on flood defenses instead. They were worried about protecting homes and land from floods.
