World Water Day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of maintaining healthy water ecosystems. At Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, we rely on our dedicated Water Guardian volunteers to help us monitor and protect these vital resources.

The Water Guardians Community Project is a joint venture, funded by Wessex Water and run by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Water Guardians are local volunteers who are our eyes and ears on the ground; they receive training to monitor watercourses, identify possible pollution incidents and then report them to Wessex Water for further investigation. As well as monitoring pollution to improve water quality, volunteers also help by litter-picking, recording wildlife or organising local engagement events.

Madelaine, a long-time volunteer, shares her experiences of becoming a Water Guardian in Mere, highlighting practical steps anyone can take to contribute to water conservation.

“I had been volunteering for the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust for some years at Langford Lakes and was looking for a way to continue contributing despite some physical challenges. Walking the rivers of Mere was perfect for me. I enjoy walking and this gave it a real purpose.

The more time you spend by the water, the more you notice changes caused by weather, seasons, and human activity. It's also wonderful to observe the wildlife: Will I see a water vole feeding by its burrow? Will a kingfisher flash past, skimming the river's surface? How many ducklings will survive? And when will the little egret return?

Fortunately, the chalk streams of Mere are usually clear and clean, but there are exceptions. A cloudy, foul-smelling pool turned out to be a blocked sewage drain, flowing into a land drain and then the River Shreen - Wessex Water responded quickly when I reported it.

It's a worthwhile and enjoyable activity; together, with more eyes on the water, we can make a real difference.”

For three years, Water Guardian Kat has walked the banks of 'her' stretch of the Hampshire Avon, a journey that's deepened her connection to this vital waterway. Here is Kat’s story:

“Approaching my third year as a Water Guardian, I feel I truly know my patch. These years have encompassed Covid, drought, and floods, offering a wide range of river conditions. My monitoring area, along a Salisbury park with adjacent water meadows, is conveniently close, allowing for frequent visits. The Guardian scheme's flexibility – monitoring as often or as little as possible – removes any sense of obligation. I walk because I want to.

Having a dedicated 'beat' creates a personal connection with the river. As a parks volunteer, I can blend my Guardianship with practical tasks: removing Himalayan balsam, highlighting the impact of increased dog ownership, or assisting distressed swans. I also enjoy sharing insights with park visitors, pointing out wildlife and explaining natural phenomena. These actions, though not formal duties, stem directly from my role as a Guardian. Caring is contagious.

The sense of responsibility extends beyond my patch. Our training builds confidence to address issues elsewhere and informally educate others. I can now differentiate between natural and detergent-based foam, and I know how to properly report pollution. Additional training, like Dragonfly and Winter Tree ID, has expanded my knowledge, enabling me to advocate for often-overlooked river inhabitants.

Reporting to iRecord connects me to a wider citizen science network. My observations – early cuckooflowers, the resurgence of native plants, or playful otters – contribute to a broader understanding of river health in a changing world. During Covid, we rediscovered the value of nature walks. Being a WWT Water Guardian adds depth, meaning, and enjoyment to these experiences.”

What Can You Do?

Madelaine and Kat’s stories reminds us that anyone can be a water guardian. Here are a few ways you can get involved and make a make a difference or our waterways:

• Observe and Report: Spend time by your local waterways. Notice any changes, pollution, or wildlife activity. Record your wildlife sightings through irecord.org. Report any concerns to the relevant authorities, such as the Environment Agency or your local water company, e.g. Wessex Water.
• Support Local Conservation Efforts: Volunteer with organisations like ours to help protect and restore our waterways. Consider donating to support our vital work.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the importance of healthy waterways and share your knowledge with friends and family.

You can also register to become a Water Guardian yourself, find out more about the project below: