This dashboard presents bacterial monitoring data from Eckington, Fladbury, and Bidford. The charts display key metrics used to assess potential risks to public health and the environment.
Bacteria are microscopic organisms found naturally in lakes, rivers, and streams. While most are harmless, some can indicate contamination or pose a risk to humans and wildlife. Coliform bacteria, including E. coli, are commonly used as indicators of water pollution, especially from animal or human waste. Elevated levels of these bacteria may suggest recent contamination from sources such as livestock, pets, or sewage.
The results are from a professional lab. A standard amount of sample is put on an agar plate (bacterial food) and grown for a set period of time. The number of colonies (dots of bacteria) seen are counted — this is the cfu ("colony forming units") count given. Environment Agency ratings consider E. coli < 500 cfu and coliforms < 200 cfu as excellent.
Monitoring these levels helps scientists and public health officials track changes over time and identify areas where further investigation or action may be needed. Given that they are historic measurements, they should not be used as an indication of whether it is safe to (say) swim or not.
| Site | E-Coli | Enterococci | Coliforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eckington | - | - | - |
| Fladbury | - | - | - |
| Bidford | - | - | - |
Sampled downstream of Eckington Bridge
Sampled just above Fladbury Mill
Sampled downstream at Marcliff