Become a Wessex Water Guardian
Wessex Water Guardians act as local eyes and ears for their waterways. By recording wildlife, invasive species, water flow and potential signs of pollution, volunteers help us monitor change and identify where further surveys or interventions may be needed.
If you know a stretch of river well and already walk or wheel along it regularly, this is a great way to begin your volunteering journey.
What will I be doing?
You will:
- Visit a chosen stretch of water regularly.
- Record wildlife, invasive species, water flow and any evidence of pollution.
- Submit your observations after each visit.
- Have the option to support activities such as litter picks and community events.
How much time will it take?
The role is flexible and designed to fit around your schedule. We ask you to:
- Visit the same stretch of water at least once a month.
- Submit a report after every visit.
Where will I be volunteering?
The Wessex Water Guardians project covers rivers across Wiltshire, Dorset, Somerset and the Bristol Avon catchment. Every river, stream and ditch matters.
The Bristol Avon catchment encompasses waterways across the region, from the Land Yeo and Congresbury Yeo in North Somerset to the Little Avon, lowland rhines and Bristol Frome in South Gloucestershire. Within Bristol, it includes the River Trym, Malago and Brislington Brook. In Bath and North East Somerset, waterways include the main River Avon, Somerset Frome, Cam, Wellow and Chew.
Together, these waterways provide vital habitats for wildlife, including the critically endangered European eel, migratory fish such as salmon and sea trout, and species such as otters, beavers and native crayfish.
How will I be trained?
No previous experience is required. The project is funded by Wessex Water and coordinated locally by Bristol Avon Rivers Trust. Our staff will provide the training, guidance and ongoing support you need to monitor your local waterway confidently.
Who can become a Water Guardian?
Anyone can take part—whether individually, as a couple, with family or as part of a community group.
Ready to become a Water Guardian?
Please complete the form below to register your interest.
The map below will help you select a stretch to monitor. If you are unsure which location to choose, we can help you find a suitable site nearby. If you live in one of the coastal areas shaded yellow, please select the Thornbury and Little Avon catchment.
If you are within a blue or hatched-blue area, please register with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust instead. They are best placed to provide local training, support and events, and your observations will contribute directly to their monitoring network:
Wessex Water Guardians Community Project – Wiltshire Wildlife Trust
If you are in the Sherston Avon catchment, please email volunteer@bristolavonriverstrust.org.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Water Guardians network and working together to protect our rivers and streams.
For any other questions, please email volunteer@bristolavonriverstrust.org