Bidwell Brook Sediment Source Tracing
What is it...?
A year-long, citizen-science investigation to pinpoint when, where and how fine sediment enters the Bidwell Brook during heavy rain, and what that means for aquatic life. Local volunteers are trained and equipped to take high-quality turbidity readings and help survey freshwater invertebrates as indicators of river health.
Why it matters
Spikes in turbidity during storms are an increasing problem, degrading habitats and water quality. Understanding the spatial and temporal pattern of sediment inputs lets us target practical fixes—on farms, lanes and streambanks—so we can protect wildlife and improve the brook.
What we do
Rapid-response storm sampling: volunteers collect synchronous water samples at 35+ sites and measure turbidity with research-grade meters (e.g., Hach 2100Q), generating a high-resolution dataset for the whole catchment.
Benchmarking ecology: professional SmartRivers ecologists establish baselines in spring and autumn, while training local teams to continue invertebrate monitoring accurately.
Targeted analysis & action: results feed into the Bidwell Brook Living Laboratory and inform evidence-based land management to reduce sediment at source.
Who's involved
Led by the Bidwell Brook Living Laboratory (part of BBP) with support from University of Plymouth, Westcountry Rivers Trust, SmartRivers/WildFish, and the CPLB farmer network.
Outputs & benefits
Catchment-wide turbidity and invertebrate datasets to guide interventions.
A trained local team and kit for ongoing monitoring.
Clear metrics to track reduced turbidity after remedial works and improved invertebrate scores over time.
