Water testing blitz on 12 streams by New Forest Friends of the Earth

A water testing “blitz” on 12 streams in the New Forest has been carried out by the local branch of Friends of the Earth.

Supported by volunteers and local residents, the friends took samples from the Forest’s waterways to assess nutrient and bacterial pollution levels.

The testing showed most streams had “moderate” levels of nitrates and phosphates, indicating relatively low nutrient pollution.

However, Danes Stream, Bartley Water, and a stream in East Boldre showed higher levels of pollution, with the group suggesting there are “possible localised sources” of contamination.

At five sites, volunteers tested for E. coli using innovative ‘R cards’, which are a relatively new method for detecting faecal contamination.

Walkford Brook at Chewton Bunny returned the highest reading of 2,366 colony-forming units (CFU), which is well above the safe bathing threshold of 1,000 CFU.

A spokesperson for the friends group said these results were “concerning” given the water sources’ proximity to local bathing beaches.

“We’re deeply concerned about the state of our local waterways,” said Rick Kimber, of New Forest Friends of the Earth. “Clean, healthy rivers should be a basic right for people and wildlife alike.”

Other high results came from Avon Water at Gordleton, showing 1,166 CFU, Beaulieu River at Lyndhurst with 666.6 CFU, and Bartley Water in Calmore showing 533 CFU.

A high reading at Brockenhurst is thought to have been due to animal waste. These results have been submitted and will be included in a UK-wide report later in May.

“This kind of work depends on teamwork, care, and accuracy,” said Gill Hickman of the friends group.

“We’re really grateful to all the volunteers who gave their time to help to protect the water quality of our precious environment.”

All nitrate and phosphate data has been uploaded to the national water quality platform and can be viewed here: freshwaterwatch.org/pages/great-uk-waterblitz-results#RESULTS