Why we are installing monitoring equipment
Through installing water quality monitoring equipment across our region, we aim to provide everyone with a near-real-time understanding of the water quality of our water environment. Our aim is to use this data for positive change.
Initially, we will only be monitoring rivers, but we will also monitor lakes, coasts and estuaries, subject to investigations to confirm feasibility. Rivers, lakes and coasts are a vital part of the UK landscape, providing recreational, economic and social benefits for our communities.
This programme is a requirement under the Environment Act Section 82. Although it is a regulatory requirement, the use of this data will also help us and others improve the health of our water environment.
The first stage in understanding the health of our river water quality is to get the facts – that’s why we’re installing water quality monitoring stations.
This is a long-term monitoring programme which will allow us to understand how a range of sources impact the water environment and how these change over time and seasons.
What are the benefits?
Installing water quality monitoring equipment will allow us to:
- collect data all year round
- gain invaluable insights into river health and the potential causes of pollution
- make water quality information available to the public by 2030
- support local, community-based action and make improvements
- protect the environment by helping reduce what is put into our rivers.
Where and when is this happening?
We started in 2024 and will have installed all the monitoring equipment across our river catchment areas by 2035.
Our installations will be phased, starting at our operational sites and the Hampshire Avon area before moving across the river catchments in our region.
Why are we starting in the Hampshire Avon area?
This is an area of Special Scientific Interest and has some of our most precious habitats.
Chalk streams and rivers are extremely rare. Conservationists and river experts consider them to be as unique as the Amazonian rainforest or Great Barrier Reef.
In fact, there are only around 200 chalk streams in the world, and half of them are in our region. The clear, nutrient-rich waters of these streams support a diverse range of species, including water voles, kingfishers and otters.
About our water quality monitoring stations
How to get involved
We are keen to work with people in our region to better understand their points of view.
If you are interested in getting involved, please email smartwaters@wessexwater.co.uk
Please explain your area of interest, and we will let you know if there are any opportunities.