Citizen Science is an increasingly important approach to using volunteers (Citizen Scientists) to collect information about the quality of our river and catchment.

Several different methods are used including collecting samples of river invertebrates (Riverfly Monitoring). This tells us how clean the water is, as different species can survive in water of different qualities.S/urveys are carried out once a month to track how the river is improving and the wildlife present at each site.

We are currently developing a catchment -wide strategy for Citizen Science, meanwhile we continue to learn from ongoing programmes and one-off exercises.

River Monitoring allows us to identify:
Fish numbers and species
Any pollution incidents that have occured
Plants and animals that may harm native wildlife
Plastics and litter
Abnormally high nutrient levels
Beauty spots

Once we know what is going on under the surface, we will use the data you have collected to improve your local beck.
You will also become part of our volunteer community with the opportunity to meet others with a passion for the river.

Our river monitors are currently helping us understand the health of important tributaries (streams and rivers) in the middle Aire between Apperley Bridge and Keighley. We have ambitions to eventually expand monitoring across Leeds.

In the upper Aire, around Skipton and across Craven, the riverfly monitors are coordinated by the local branch of Wildfish (formerly Salmon and Trout Conservation Yorkshire).

© Copyright Aire Rivers Trust 2020
The Aire Rivers Trust is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No: 07464227 and a Registered Charity No: 1145609
Registered Office at: 38 Morton Lane, East Morton, Keighley BD20 5RS