PEOPLE in Keynsham and Saltford are being asked to collect samples of water from local rivers to find out how polluted it is.
The area covered by the annual Bristol Avon RiverBlitz 2025 takes in the River Avon and all the rivers and streams that flow into it, including the River Chew, which flows through Keynsham Memorial Park.
The RiverBlitz is being organised by Bristol Avon Rivers Trust (BART), which is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of the Bristol Avon and its tributaries.
During the event, which runs from July 4 to July 11, volunteers will be asked to gather nutrient data and document observations at their chosen sampling sites. They will measure nitrate and phosphate levels which, when high, indicate poor water quality caused by manmade inputs such as sewage or agricultural run-off.
BART said: “The information collected by dedicated volunteers helps us identify pristine waters, pinpoint pollution hotspots, and provide a comprehensive overview of water quality and river health.
“The RiverBlitz is also a fantastic way for volunteers to connect with nature, explore nearby rivers, and get to know the vibrant wildlife that inhabits these areas.”
People who want to take part need to sign up before Saturday June 28 to receive their free water quality testing kit in time for RiverBlitz week.
The kit includes everything needed to conduct a RiverBlitz at their chosen river site, along with detailed instructions on how to accurately collect data.
To register for the Bristol Avon RiverBlitz 2025, click here (registration to open by June 1).
Simon Hunter, CEO of BART, said: “The Bristol Avon RiverBlitz is a powerful example of how local communities can come together to protect and restore our rivers.
“Every sample collected helps build a clearer picture of the health of our waterways, providing a dataset that highlights the potential issues and opportunities across the catchment.
“We’re proud to have championed citizen science for over eight years at the trust, recognising the vital role it plays in shaping a healthier future for the Bristol Avon and its wildlife.”
Bristol Avon RiverBlitz 2025 is partially funded by Wessex Water.
Citizen scientists asked to test river quality
