The River Dee is the beating heart of the communities and landscapes of Royal Deeside. In 1998 the River Dee Trust was set up to protect this invaluable resource for us and future generations. Howard is keen to continue his “support for the cutting-edge expertise of the trust and it's modern approach to involving the community for the well being of the Dee. Mitigating the effects of man on the lifeblood of Royal Deeside will allow future generations to enjoy the beauty of this glorious river”

River Dee Exhibition (2006) - Howard auctioned 15 pictures at an event at the Marcliffe Hotel and donated 30% of the proceeds to the RDT. Queen Elizabeth II showed her support with a special purchase of one of the river paintings . In total £53,000 was raised for the trust. Christies River Dee Trust Auction (2012) - One of the lots featured in the charity auction at the Saville Club in Mayfair was 'Crystal' donated by Howard.‘Opening Day’ (2013) - Howard was invited to paint the 150th anniversary of the River Dee opening ceremony. A limited edition print was created of the occasion with a donation included in the sale price to the RDT. River of Fish Display (2015) – Howard was invited to decorate a large ceramic salmon (bars of silver) as part of the wonderful project by The Heckleburn Quines which raised over £3,000 in funds for the RDT and Banchory Sports Village. 

The Howard Butterworth Award (2021) - first year of the Award organised by The River Dee Trust to honour Howard's wonderful work and support. Young people from the local area had been encouraged to get creative and be inspired by their surroundings for this year’s theme of "The Landscape of The Dee". The winning painting by Isla was one of the 168 entries from 12 Aberdeen city and shire schools, As well as claiming the trophy designed by Howard (realised by Shelagh Swanson Glass), Isla was invited to plant trees with her class as part of the River Dee Trust's million tree campaign. Howard commented that "I am so pleased that the project inspired so many children’s interest in the Dee and the wider ecology of Aberdeenshire." 

Michael Sheridan, Master Butcher, Royal Warrant Holder and benefactor to the community of Ballater in so many ways, commissioned a stained glass window to be designed by Howard. The window was dedicated on Easter Sunday 2009 by the Reverend Tony Watts, in the presence of H.R.H The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay and members of the Sheridan family.‘I am the light of the world/Is mise solas an t-saoghil’ was realised and manufactured by Jennifer Jane Stained Glass. A wonderful tribute and legacy, it looks stunning with the sun shining through. Those who knew him, will recognise Mike’s vintage delivery van crossing the bridge, depicted in the window.