Water Quality
Wear Rivers Trust manages water quality through a catchment-based, nature-led approach that focuses on understanding pressures on rivers and delivering long-term improvements. By combining monitoring, partnership working, and practical action, we work to protect and restore freshwater systems across the Wear catchment.
How we improve water quality
Our work brings together evidence, partnership delivery, and nature-led solutions to support lasting improvements in river water quality.
- Understanding river health
We monitor rivers across the catchment to build a detailed picture of water quality and ecological condition. This includes sampling for nutrients, sediments, bacteria, and chemicals, alongside ecological surveys that use fish, invertebrates, and plant communities as indicators of river health. - Reducing pollution pressures
We work with partners to reduce pollution entering rivers from a range of sources. This includes supporting improved land management in rural areas, promoting sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in towns and cities, and working with water companies to reduce the impact of sewage and wastewater discharges. - Supporting natural filtration
Restoring riparian vegetation and wetlands helps slow water movement and filter pollutants before they reach rivers, supporting cleaner water and healthier habitats.
Benefits of our work
Through this work, we deliver a range of benefits for rivers, wildlife, and people across the Wear catchment.
Cleaner rivers and streams across the catchment
Healthier habitats for fish, invertebrates, and plants
Improved conditions for recreation and amenity use
Stronger evidence to support long-term river recovery
Improvements which benefit the whole catchment
Get Involved
Take part in practical conservation, volunteering and community action that supports healthier rivers and thriving wildlife.
Support Our Work
Help fund vital river and water conservation projects that protect freshwater habitats and deliver lasting benefits.