Bidwell Brook

At the beginning of September, our water technician Eliza joined Dr Eva Perrin (University of Plymouth), Richard Haigh (Bidwell Brook Partnership), Alistair White (Molendotech), and Richard’s granddaughter Eleanor for a sampling round along the Bidwell Brook, as part of the University of Plymouth’s BactiQuick project.

Rising in Rattery Village, the Bidwell Brook receives inputs from the Rattery Waste Water Treatment Works and several private sewage discharges. It flows east through farmland, then on through Dartington before joining the River Dart just upstream of Dartington Pontoon — a much-loved spot for river users.

Given the multiple pressures on the Brook and its connection to areas like Steamer Quay, where water quality is often poor, this monitoring is vital to help us understand what’s driving pollution.

The research team are collecting bacterial and sonde data to support the development of an AI-based early warning system for detecting river contamination. Friends of the Dart are proud to be supporting this work by assisting in sampling rounds, sharing our own monitoring data, and contributing our local knowledge of the catchment to help build a more detailed understanding of the pressures facing the Brook.

We’re delighted to be part of such an innovative project and to work alongside partners who share our commitment to safeguarding the Dart and its tributaries. Together, we’re building a clearer picture of river health to better protect our communities and wildlife.