Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)
Minister 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 25-28 April 2025,
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
Notes to editors:
- This is being run by environmental charity Earthwatch Europe.
