BedsGovet, the organisation behind the Don’t Lose the Ouse campaign, has now purchased its first Sonde water quality monitor using money generously donated by a few pioneer Bedford Borough councillors from their Ward Funds.
This investment allows the expansion of our testing programme using waterproof computers which record ‘real-time results’ of pollutants.
We have just heard that a Rural Grant has also been awarded, thanks to an application supported by Cllr Doug McMurdo (Independent) and Sharnbrook Parish Council.
We will be working with them closely to make sure this money works for residents of the rural areas too.
BedsGOVET trustee Alan Horn explained, “BedsGovet are committed to monitoring and mitigating pollution in the river. Use of this technology allows us to monitor the water even more effectively, as a range of sensors can be fitted.
“The current method of sending off samples to a UK-accredited lab for testing, and waiting days for results, is expensive and not ideal as the river water changes constantly.
“We want to be able to say what the levels of pollution are at the time of important river events, to provide better information about river health”.
BedsGovet is also grateful to Ashley Kenlock and Richard Harpham of Canoe Trail for their support while purchasing a kayak to monitor the new Sondes in various locations, providing additional equipment free of charge and safety training.
The Canoe Trail team led a hugely successful free Paddleboarding River Clean Up event on 22nd April, with Planet Patrol, and are running more during the year.
The Team also recovered several life rings which they return to the council during the year. Getting litter out of the river not only improves the way it looks, it reduces microplastic pollution and protects wildlife.
If we want to live in a sustainable environment, we will all need to be part of the solution.
If you want to be involved, BedsGovet is particularly recruiting volunteers who want to support a new Bathing Water Status application working group and schools to help design educational materials for the Don’t Lose the Ouse campaign.
Teachers who want to help develop KS1-KS3 curriculum materials are also encouraged to get in touch.
Everyone is invited to support the Surfers Against Sewage Paddle-Out Protest event on 18 May, 2-5pm, meeting at Castle Mound on Bedford’s Embankment.
To join our campaign, receive newsletters and invitations to events, contact BedsGovet on info@bedsgovet.org and follow us on Facebook.
By Tricia Lennie
BedsGOVET
The Bedford Independent is proud to support BedsGOVET in their vital work to monitor water quality in the River Great Ouse and provide them with space for a column as part of their Don’t Lose the Ouse campaign.
Read: Wells & Co and Bedford Independent team up with water quality campaigners
