GoodGym Water Testing: Citizen Science Report Several GoodGym members have been taking part in the Great UK WaterBlitz, carrying out simple water-quality tests in different locations around the country. The activity uses small test tubes and colour charts to record nitrate, phosphate and pH levels, helping to build a wider picture of river health. Harvey’s report I went down to the river — but into the river I didn’t swim! — on a sunny morning. Although I could hear the traffic on the bridge above, the River Brent flowed peacefully along. Armed with phone and testing kit, I set about following the instructions to fill three small plastic tubes with water from the river. It was easy! Then I matched them to a colour chart. Turns out the river in that spot, at that time, had moderate ecological status, so I guess that’s not terrible, but could do better! A nice thing to do.

Pauls report Why this kind of citizen science matters What I love about this kind of citizen science — and water testing in particular — is that it makes you stop and properly experience a place. You notice the movement of the water, the birds, the dappled light, even the traffic or urban noise around you. A spot you might normally hurry past can suddenly feel like a small haven. And at the same time, you’re doing a simple experiment and producing results that can actually be useful. It’s relaxation, observation and environmental action all rolled into one. Brief summary of Paul’s test results Paul’s sample showed: Test Result Brief interpretation Nitrates 1–2 mg/L Slightly raised; this may be the main reason the sample was not classed as “good”. Phosphates 0.02–0.05 mg/L Low, which is encouraging. pH 8–9 Alkaline, but not extreme. Overall, Paul’s result suggests a moderate ecological status at that spot and time: not terrible, but with room for improvement. The low phosphate reading is positive, while the nitrate level and slightly high pH show why repeated testing across different locations and conditions is useful.