A water quality testing program, which began in July, has been initiated in Wootton Creek, with joint funding support from Wootton Bridge Parish Council and Fishbourne Parish Council.
The Wootton Creek Fairways Association (WCFA) involves regular testing of water samples against the Bathing Water Regulations.
The WCFA tests at two key locations - near the creek mouth and the Mill Pond - measuring levels of E. Coli and Enterococci bacteria.
Initial results from July through October have consistently shown 'Excellent to Good' ratings according to the Bathing Water Regulations (2013) standards.
This is positive news for Wootton Creek users and tourists alike.
Chani Courtney of Surfers Against Sewage expressed the importance of water quality testing:
"Wootton and Fishbourne are incredible communities for setting up this kind of citizen science.
"Only by understanding the impact of sewage pollution can the drivers be there for the correct solutions.
"This is a brilliant step in the communities journey. I have offered any help and advice available from Surfers Against Sewage.
"Keep going fighting for our blue spaces, they are precious."
Thanks to the financial support from both Parish Councils, the WCFA will be able to conduct ten tests over the next twelve months, providing a comprehensive picture of water quality throughout the year.
Importantly, some of these tests will be timed to coincide with extreme weather events, particularly after heavy rainfall when sewage overflows are more likely to occur.
Ed Hopper, Chair of Fishbourne Parish Council, stated:
"Following a meeting hosted by Fishbourne Parish Council in December 2023, at which we heard from Chani from Surfers Against Sewage, FPC is pleased to work with Wootton Bridge Parish Council to provide funding towards the cost of the water quality testing being undertaken by the Wootton Creek Fairway Association.
"This work will be of benefit to residents across Fishbourne and Wootton, as well as to recreational users of the Creek."
Barry Abraham, Chairman of Wootton Bridge Parish Council added:
“Having access to clean water is hugely important not just for residents and creek users but also our wildlife.”
The initiative aims to provide crucial information for the increasing number of creek users, including paddle boarders, canoeists, and other water sports enthusiasts who have direct contact with the water.
All test results are being made publicly available on the WCFA website, enabling creek users to make informed decisions about water activities.
Councillor Sarah Redrup, Isle of Wight Councillor for Wootton Bridge, said:
"This is a brilliant initiative and I applaud the Wootton Creek Fairway Association for taking this responsibility on.
"Across the country, almost 2000 people in 2023 reported to Surfers Against Sewage that they became seriously ill after swimming in polluted water.
"It is important for creek users to have access to water quality information so they can feel confident it is safe."
For more information about the water testing program or to access the latest results, visit the Wootton Creek Fairway Association website.
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