Water testing in Stone shows threats to river life

Freshwater testing carried out in Stone has revealed pollution levels that could be harming fish and other river species in the Trent.

Volunteers from the Stone River Pollution Action Group took part in the national GreatWaterBlitz weekend between 25th and 27th April. Testing took place along the river by Westbridge Park and the Nature Reserve, with results showing excessive levels of both nitrates and phosphates, key contributors to declining river health.

According to the findings, phosphate levels reached 0.2 milligrams per litre, indicating poor ecological status. Nitrate levels were even more concerning at 1.0 milligrams per litre, suggesting significant nutrient pollution in the water.

Bill Lockwood, Chair of the Action Group, said:

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“The results of this citizen science activity were disturbing but not altogether surprising. We know that excess nutrient pollution comes from incomplete treatment of sewage which has been of long-standing concern in Stone and the run-off from agricultural fertilisers which might well be another local source. It really highlights how important it is that local government, Severn Trent Water, and local communities work together urgently and effectively to protect our precious freshwater wildlife.”

The group is one of many across the UK contributing to Freshwater Watch’s national effort to track the state of local rivers. Using easy-to-carry test kits, volunteers measure pollutants like nitrate and phosphate, which can starve rivers of oxygen when found in high concentrations.

In Stone, a cross-section of the community took part. Eight-year-old Leo Carpenter joined Lesley Welborn and Bill Lockwood to help carry out the riverside tests. Other volunteers included Sally Osborne-Town and members of the public who stopped to ask questions and learn more about the process.

The Action Group hopes the findings will not only raise awareness but prompt stronger environmental protections and community-led monitoring efforts going forward.