CPRE Herefordshire Wye citizen science water quality monitoring field guide

Our Wye Citizen Science Water Quality Monitoring Field Guide contains everything volunteers need to carry out accurate, safe water quality testing. It covers equipment, sampling technique, health and safety, how to identify signs of pollution, and how to record and upload your results.

Prefer to learn visually? We’ve recorded a full video guide to walk you through the monitoring process step by step. Watch the video here.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is citizen science water quality monitoring?

Citizen science water quality monitoring involves trained volunteers collecting river water samples and testing them for pollutants such as phosphate and nitrate. The data contributes to a wider evidence base used to understand and address river pollution.

Why is the River Wye being monitored?

The River Wye has experienced serious water quality decline in recent years, largely driven by excess phosphate from agricultural sources and sewage discharges. Volunteer monitoring provides consistent, catchment-wide data to support conservation and regulatory action.

How is the data used?

Data collected by CPRE Herefordshire volunteers is uploaded to WyeViz, an interactive dashboard used by the Wye Alliance to track pollution trends, identify problem areas and support evidence-based campaigning.

Can I get involved?

To find out more about volunteering with CPRE Herefordshire’s citizen science programme, contact us at volunteer@cpreherefordshire.org.uk.