Citizen Scientists celebrated at Cardigan Castle conference
Citizen scientists from across West Wales gathered at Cardigan Castle on Thursday, 27 March, for the West Wales Nutrient Management Board’s Citizen Science conference.
The event brought together volunteers, experts, and organisations dedicated to monitoring and improving water quality in the region’s rivers.
Hosted by the West Wales Nutrient Management Board (WWNMB), the conference provided a platform to celebrate the achievements of citizen scientists, share experiences, and discuss the challenges of monitoring water quality.
The event was supported by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) through the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project, which aims to strengthen digital infrastructure for environmental monitoring.
Showcasing innovation and impact
Attendees participated in live technical demonstrations to analyse water samples, offering a hands-on insight into the latest scientific techniques. The event also highlighted the limitations of monitoring equipment and error margins, underlining the importance of accurate data collection.
Beyond the technical aspects, the conference acknowledged the diversity of skills that citizen scientists bring to environmental efforts, recognising that their contributions extend far beyond scientific and technical expertise. Discussions explored how community-led monitoring initiatives can drive positive change, influencing local policies and enhancing conservation strategies.
A platform for collaboration and action
Citizen science groups from Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Ceredigion—including representatives from projects such as Save the Teifi, Achub y Tywi, and the Cleddau Project—shared their experiences.
Angela Towler, a dedicated citizen scientist said: "Being a citizen scientist is about more than just collecting data; it’s about taking action to protect the places we care about. The conference is an example of how the NMB has helped to give Citizen Scientists a voice. It has been an incredible opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about improving our rivers. It’s encouraging to see our efforts recognised, and I hope more people are inspired to get involved. Every sample we take and every piece of data we collect adds to the bigger picture, helping to drive real change."
Looking Ahead
While challenges remain in ensuring consistency, comparability, and effective use of data, the event reinforced that community-led action is a powerful force in tackling environmental issues.
Speaking at the event, Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration and Chair of the Nutrient Management Board, said: "It is inspiring to see so many dedicated individuals coming together to protect our rivers. Citizen scientists play a vital role in highlighting pollution sources and providing valuable data that informs policy and action. Today’s conference celebrates their hard work, commitment, and the impact they have on safeguarding our natural environment. I encourage everyone to explore how they can get involved and check how their own actions contribute to cleaner, healthier waterways."
While challenges remain in ensuring consistency, comparability, and effective use of data, the event reinforced that community-led action is a powerful force in tackling environmental issues.
Speaking at the event, Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration and Chair of the Nutrient Management Board, said: "It is inspiring to see so many dedicated individuals coming together to protect our rivers. Citizen scientists play a vital role in highlighting pollution sources and providing valuable data that informs policy and action. Today’s conference celebrates their hard work, commitment, and the impact they have on safeguarding our natural environment. I encourage everyone to explore how they can get involved and check how their own actions contribute to cleaner, healthier waterways."
The Nutrient Management Board will continue to support and collaborate with citizen science groups to improve water quality and river health across the region. Their important work has been possible by funding from Welsh Government who recognise the importance of these precious rivers to future generations’. View their latest projects and resources at the NMB Portal and GIS Evidence base: Nutrient Management Board
To view the Teifi Citizen Science Monitoring and Dashboard, that tracks and shares citizen scientist water quality data for the Teifi River, visit: https://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/planning-building-control-and-sustainable-drainage-body-sab/nutrients-in-the-teifi-river-sac/teifi-citizen-science-monitoring-and-dashboard/
The dashboard is a core part of the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) Project, funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and administrated by the Cynnal y Cardi team, Ceredigion County Council and delivered in conjunction with the WWNMB and its stakeholders. It is supported by the Rural Connectivity Accelerator (RCA) project, which the Council is part of and is funded by the UK Government Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
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: NMB@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
To view the Teifi Citizen Science Monitoring and Dashboard, that tracks and shares citizen scientist water quality data for the Teifi River, visit: https://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/planning-building-control-and-sustainable-drainage-body-sab/nutrients-in-the-teifi-river-sac/teifi-citizen-science-monitoring-and-dashboard/
The dashboard is a core part of the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) Project, funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and administrated by the Cynnal y Cardi team, Ceredigion County Council and delivered in conjunction with the WWNMB and its stakeholders. It is supported by the Rural Connectivity Accelerator (RCA) project, which the Council is part of and is funded by the UK Government Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
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: NMB@carmarthenshire.gov.uk