PEOPLE around the UK are being encouraged to take part in a major citizen science project this autumn, helping to monitor the health of the nation’s canals, rivers, lakes and ponds.
The annual Great UK WaterBlitz will return on September 18-21 , with organisers aiming to make it the largest and most impactful water quality data collection campaign to date.
The initiative, organised by Dr Laura Bannatyne and the freshwater research team at Earthwatch Europe, invites volunteers to test local freshwater sites using specially provided water quality kits. Participants will measure nitrate and phosphate levels, providing valuable data on the condition of waterways around the country.
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Previous participants are being encouraged to revisit sites they have tested before to track changes over time, although new locations are equally welcome. Rivers, streams, lakes, ponds and canals can all be included in the survey.
The organisers say the project plays an important role in building a clearer picture of freshwater health while engaging communities directly in environmental monitoring. By contributing data, volunteers help scientists and environmental groups better understand water quality issues and identify areas where action may be needed.
Those wishing to take part can register in advance to receive a water testing kit by post. The kits enable participants to collect and record water quality data during the four-day event in September.
Earthwatch Europe hopes that thousands of people will take part in this year’s experiment, generating a significant dataset to support freshwater conservation efforts. For more information or to register, visit https://earthwatch.org.uk
