Water Quality Monitoring Program
July 2017 - ongoing | 25 sites across the Bellinger and Kalang catchments, NSW, Australia (see map)
The Bellingen Riverwatch Water Quality Monitoring program is in its sixth year with the incredible collective efforts of volunteers and schools.
Monthly ongoing longitudinal water quality data is important for monitoring the rivers’ health, identifying priority areas for management actions and educating the community on how to reduce the impact they may be having on their environment. In 2022, the Bellingen Riverwatch steering committee published a 5-Year WQM Data Report. Our data supports the recovery of the critically endangered Bellinger River Snapping Turtle.
88%
of participants feel they have developed environmental stewardship from being a part of Bellingen Riverwatch.
94%
of participants feel more connected with their environment as a result of their participation with Bellingen Riverwatch.
Outputs and Outcomes
1272 events over 6 years
7812 tests over 6 years
34 current active volunteers
15 current active students
25 current testing sites
Connections amongst Bellingen Riverwatch volunteers, community members and partners strengthened.
Partners
North Coast Local Land Services
NSW Waterwatch
Orama Public School
Raleigh Public School
Repton Public School
Affirmations
Bellingen High School
Bellinger Landcare
Chrysalis Steiner School
EnviroComm Connections