DAERA Minister asks public to help monitor water quality

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has urged the public to become citizen scientists at local water sources in the ‘Great UK Water Blitz'.

The Great UK Water Blitz, which takes place on April 25 to 28, allows participants to take simple water tests at their local water sources, uploading their findings to a central database. This collective data helps form a snapshot of water quality across the UK, contributing to better understanding and action to protect our water environment.

Speaking today at Antrim Lough Shore Park to launch the Blitz, Minister Muir said: “I am pleased that my Department is supporting the Great UK Water Blitz. The issues we have witnessed in Lough Neagh and beyond have highlighted the importance of ensuring this precious resource is protected for not just for us but for future generations. It is only through science, data gathering and information we can really make the changes we all want to see.

“I recently attended the Lough Neagh Stakeholder Forum where we were pleased to announce that from the Lough Neagh Action Plan, 10 actions have been delivered, with a further 23 in progress. Significant amount of work is needed to turn the tide on water quality but my Department is firmly committed to driving forward initiatives that enable better water quality which is essential for all aspects of life here in Northern Ireland.

“With a better understanding of the water quality of local rivers and lakes, we can all make better decisions and take action to improve our local water environment.”

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has secured 500 water test kits to be distributed throughout Northern Ireland.

Minister Muir has encouraged people to take part and said: “Everyone has a role to play in protecting water quality and I would urge anyone with an interest to participate in the Water Blitz and help to monitor the health of our waterways.”

Dr Sasha Woods, Director of Science and Policy at Earthwatch Europe, added: “Our canals, rivers, lakes and streams are threatened by pollution from multiple sources. Urgent action is needed to safeguard the future of our precious freshwater ecosystems.

“By taking part in the Great UK WaterBlitz, we can use the power of citizen science to build a snapshot of freshwater quality in Northern Ireland, enabling us to pinpoint pollution hotspots and take action for a healthy freshwater future.”

If you are interested in participating in the Water Blitz or would like to request a test kit, please contact the NIEA using the following details: Great UK WaterBlitz - DAERA Signup - Earthwatch Europe