From carrying out our own water testing using UKAS Accredited laboratories, to supporting advanced research into new species of bacteria in the River Teign, a key part of our mission is to improve water quality within the Teign. Improving the water quality is important not just for swimmers and water users but the wildlife in the river, including endangered species such as the Atlantic Salmon and Allis Shad that return to the river to breed.
Our Winter Testing Programme ran from October 2024 until May 2025 and was the first comprehensive set of tests conducted in the River Teign during the winter months. Using strict protocols identical to the Environment Agency, the results, once analysed, will be shared with stakeholders and water users.
Each water sample is collected in sterilised containers and stored at a constant temperature. They are then couriered to a professional laboratory for analysis. Results are usually available within 4 days. The full analysis of the results will be posted on our Blog page
With a warming climate new threats from invasive species and new bacteria pose a threat to both wildlife and humans. Researchers at Exeter University have identified species of vibrio bacteria in samples taken from cockles and oysters in the Teign estuary. These bacteria need temperatures in excess of 18ºC to thrive but can enter a dormant state during winter. Vibrio are one of the leading causes of waterborne illness worldwide but have NOT been measured in harmful levels locally. By researching this emerging trend we can predict their spread and prevent disease outbreaks.
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