Official Statement from Friends of the Dart RE: Media Coverage of Salmonella Typhi Detection in the River Dart

Recent news reports about the detection of Salmonella Typhi in the River Dart have, understandably, caused concern. We’d like to offer some clarity and context to support an informed understanding of what’s actually been found—and what it does and does not mean.

The information cited in the media comes from a scientific study on antimicrobial resistance in river ecosystems, undertaken by Friends of the Dart as part of a University of York study. The testing method used—quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR)—is extremely sensitive and detects tiny traces of bacterial DNA. However, it’s crucial to note: qPCR cannot tell us whether the bacteria are alive or infectious. It often picks up fragments of dead or inactive organisms and does not indicate any current risk of infection.

As part of this work, our volunteers collected samples over a week, starting 28 June 2024, across four designated Bathing Water sites: Steamer Quay, Stoke Gabriel, Dittisham, and Warfleet Creek. These samples were then analysed for a wide range of pollutants and environmental indicators, including:

● Pharmaceuticals

● PFAs (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)

● PAHs (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)

● Heavy metals

● Pesticides

● Nutrients

● Antimicrobial resistance genes

● Antimicrobial resistance genes

What we found

Of the 104 substances tested, 54 were detected. While all were at levels too low to pose any immediate threat to human health, some may be harmful to wildlife over time, particularly with repeated exposure.

Notable findings included:

● Pharmaceuticals: Including traces of antibiotics, antidepressants, blood pressure and

diabetes medication, antihistamines, painkillers, and laxatives.

● Cosmetic-related chemicals: Such as antiseptics, additives, and preservatives.

● PFAs: Including persistent compounds like PFOA, PFBA, and PFNA.

● PAHs: By-products of combustion with known long-term health risks.

● Lifestyle chemicals: Such as caffeine and nicotine.

● Heavy metals: Present below drinking water thresholds, but capable of accumulating in wildlife.

● Antimicrobial resistance genes: Preliminary results suggest these are present —particularly at Steamer Quay. However, these findings are still under review, and no firm conclusions can yet be drawn.

This research is part of a larger, ongoing study into pathogens, persistent chemicals, and microplastics in the Dart. While the early results help build a picture of what may be present in the water, they do not provide evidence of live pathogens or confirm a public health risk at this stage.

The release of this data by a partner organisation — without adequate scientific framing — was premature. Friends of the Dart remains committed to careful science, transparent communication, and the wellbeing of both the river and the wider community. We will continue working with specialists to review the findings thoroughly and share meaningful updates as they emerge.

Friends of the Dart exists to advocate for our river. We are a not for profit community group who work to minimise pollution, empower communities and increase biodiversity. Friends of the Dart work to support best practice leadership for all rivers.

To learn more about our ongoing work and how to get involved, please visit: www.friendsofthedart.org