With just 220 existing worldwide, chalk streams are some of England's rarest wildlife habitats. These beautiful rivers are famous for their iconic animals, lush plant life, and crystal-clear water. Their global rarity and ecological importance have led us to protect, enhance, and celebrate seven Hampshire streams as a partner in the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme.

The Chalk Stream Challenge was created by two of the scheme's brilliant volunteers - Sarah Smith and Hazel Metcalfe - as a way for young people to explore these habitats. Families, schools, and youth groups can explore pre-checked routes, or create their own, by downloading free resources at home. Activities, wildlife facts, and spotter guides are all available, as well as fabric badges for a small fee.

There are currently four pre-checked challenge routes here in Hampshire, and two in Wiltshire that were created by our friends at Wessex Rivers Trust. Now, communities around the lovely River Chess - which flows for 18km (11 miles) through Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire - have a challenge route of their own. This is all thanks to the hard work of the fantastic Chilterns Chalk Stream Project.

The new route runs for 4km (2.5 miles) through the picturesque town of Chesham, taking in fishing lakes, wet woodland, and even a waterfall! Young explorers can try stream dipping, bird spotting, making a twig boat, and other activities. So if you're visiting the area, or know others who are, why not have a go? Or please get in touch if you'd like to create a challenge route for your local chalk stream.