Afon Teifi projects highlights progress in Nutrient Management and Rural Connectivity
Ceredigion County Council hosted a showcase event on Monday, 10th February 2025, at Cardigan Castle, highlighting the ongoing work of the Afon Teifi Nutrient Management Project and the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project.
Supported by the Welsh Government and the UK Department of Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT), the event brought together key stakeholders to discuss innovative approaches to improving water quality and digital connectivity in rural communities.Attendees were welcomed to the event with an introduction to the projects, followed by presentations outlining the challenges and progress in nutrient management within the River Teifi. The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) project, in collaboration with the West Wales Nutrient Management Board, continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the river’s health.
A key part of this initiative is the work of Citizen Scientists, local volunteers who collect and analyse water samples, contributing vital data to monitor pollution levels and inform future interventions.
Callum Firth, a Citizen Scientist and member of Save the Teifi shared his thoughts: “It is great that Ceredigion Council and the Teifi Nutrient Management Board are supporting Citizen Science activities so that the results collected by our volunteers are being used to assess the state of the river and hopefully illustrate improvements as action is taken. Hopefully by knowing that the results are of use will encourage more people to become involved in helping to restore the river!”
Over the past year, volunteers tested water quality across 45 sites, working alongside high-tech sensors to provide real-time insights into the river’s condition. The combined data is helping to shape long-term strategies to reduce pollution and protect biodiversity in the Teifi catchment area.
The showcase also highlighted the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project, which is improving digital infrastructure in the region. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that businesses and residents in rural Ceredigion benefit from better connectivity, supporting economic growth and sustainability.
The event provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss future plans and encourage wider community engagement in both projects. With continued collaboration and support, these initiatives are set to make a lasting impact on both the environment and rural connectivity in Mid Wales.
Councillor Clive Davies, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration and Chair of the Nutrient Management Board, commented: “Today’s showcase is a testament to the tremendous progress we’ve made in both protecting the River Teifi and enhancing rural connectivity. The involvement of local communities, particularly our Citizen Scientists, is key to the success of these projects. We look forward to continuing to work with everyone with a common interest in improving the health of our river by ensuring these vital initiatives thrive and benefit future generations.”
The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) project is looking for more volunteers to join in 2025. If you’d like to help test water, check for pollution, and learn more about protecting the environment, this is your chance!
For more information on how to get involved with the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring Project, please contact: ChRichards@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
More information on the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) project: https://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/planning-building-control-and-sustainable-drainage-body-sab/nutrients-in-the-teifi-river-sac/teifi-nutrient-monitoring-project/
More information on the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project: https://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/news/2024/rural-connectivity-innovations-transform-environmental-monitoring-in-ceredigion/