Regular readers of this site will remember past appeals by Thames 21 to assist in clearing vegetation and rubbish at Sunbury Lock Island. Now this very worthwhile Organisation is appealing for volunteers to participate in a less strenuous enterprise. The following email from Luke Dameron, the Thames 21 Project Officer, is self-explanatory and we have pleasure in reproducing it here:
In celebration of the Thames Festival and partnership with other organisations together we are aiming to test 1,000 water samples taken from the River Thames and its tributaries on one day to get a snapshot of Phosphate and Nitrate levels across the Thames River Basin. We specifically request volunteers to test the waters of the Thames and tributaries with water quality kits provided by us between Maidenhead and Teddington. This will take place during working hours of the 14th of September (Monday) 2015, and would require 1 hour of your time.
The reasons for undertaking this activity are, with increasing rural and urban development around our waterways has led to the increasing rate and high levels of Phosphates (P) and Nitrates (N) that can be analysed. It will provide an opportunity for you to be a part of the team producing a snapshot of water quality across the whole Thames River that will help shape regional decisions, and raise awareness of water quality issues in your local area. Phosphate and Nitrate water testing kits are relatively easy to use and full training will be given via practically or online.
If you would like to be play a part in this great event of the Thames Festival and learn to about your local water quality please get in touch with me directly by 11th of August.
Best wishes
Luke
Luke Damerum
Non-Tidal River Thames Project Officer & Maidenhead – Teddington Catchment Partnership Coordinator
Thames21 ‘Bringing Waterways to Life’
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