Pangbourne water quality testing

Mend the Gap has funded a citizen science project led by Thames 21. The Pangbourne Bathing Water Project engaged local volunteers in 2024 to carry out weekly sampling of six sampling locations along the river Thames near Pangbourne, during the bathing water season, mirroring the Environment Agency’s methodology, used when considering designated bathing water sites.

The data was collected and analysed weekly in partnership with the Goring Gap Environmental Organisation, to assess each location and possible sources of pollution into the River Thames, in relation to two types of bacteria. The data collected will contribute to a greater understanding of the water quality locally and help to indicate the level of impact from the five sewage treatment works along this stretch between South Stoke and Pangbourne.

A training event was initially held at Pangbourne Meadows to show volunteers how to safely carry out river water quality testing, before sampling began. The hope is that the results from this testing will, long-term, help support a bathing water status application for Pangbourne Meadows. In the meantime, this citizen science project will enable local residents to better understand their river and the challenges it faces.

Analysis from the samples at six points on the River Thames along the Goring Gap has shown “good” results overall at Pangbourne Meadows, with some variation.

Read the final report here:

Pangbourne and Goring Water Quality Report 2024