Ceredigion Leads the Way in Water Quality Monitoring with Groundbreaking Technology

The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) project has introduced groundbreaking approaches to protect and restore the Teifi river system, achieving several firsts in Wales. Led by Ceredigion County Council in collaboration with the Nutrient Management Board (NMB), the project combines cutting-edge technology with community-driven efforts to address water quality challenges.

High-Frequency Monitoring (HFM) sensors and Multisondes have been deployed at strategic points along the Teifi and its tributaries, working like high-tech “eyes” and “ears” collecting data four times a day to track pollution and identify sources. These technologies are complemented by the invaluable work of Citizen Scientists, who contribute data through agile handheld monitoring techniques.

Together, these efforts aim to address evidence gaps, understand pollution patterns, and guide precise mitigation strategies, laying the groundwork for long-term improvements across the region.

Key Achievements of the Project:

• Comprehensive Monitoring Coverage:  Phase One focuses on the main river, while Phase Two extends to over 20 tributary areas, addressing evidence gaps in these under-monitored regions.
• Data-Driven Solutions: High-frequency sensors have gathered hundreds of readings since March 2024, providing critical insights for identifying pollution sources.
• Nutrient Management Plans: Feeding into action plans for the Teifi, Tywi, and Cleddau rivers, authored by the NMB and set for approval in Spring 2025. These plans outline actionable steps to reduce pollution and improve water quality.
• Scalable Methodologies: The monitoring protocols developed through this project will serve as a model for other catchment areas in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire, enhancing ongoing efforts to combat pollution in these regions.
• Innovative Technology and Collaboration: By combining cutting-edge monitoring tools with the efforts of Citizen Scientists and collaboration with partners like Natural Resources Wales, the project is fostering a coordinated, community-driven approach to environmental management.

The NMB brings together local authorities, environmental agencies, and community groups to tackle nutrient challenges across the Teifi, Tywi, and Cleddau rivers. Their collaborative efforts aim to restore Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and support sustainable development.

Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration and Chair of the Teifi NMB, said: “This combination of satellite communication and citizen engagement is a game-changer, paving the way for smarter environmental management. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration, we are taking vital steps toward healthier rivers and ecosystems in Ceredigion.”

Gail Pearce -Taylor, GPT Nutrient Management Board Programme Manager Tywi, Teifi and Cleddau river SAC catchments, added: “By monitoring water quality and addressing pollution in the Teifi River, this project will benefit the community, businesses, and residents by helping to create healthier rivers and ecosystems. By preventing future environmental damage, we promote a sustainable environment for all.”

The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and administrated by the Cynnal y Cardi team, Ceredigion County Council and delivered in conjunction with the NMB and its stakeholders.