East Hampshire waterways show high nitrate levels

Water quality tests conducted as part of the Earthwatch ‘Great UK Waterblitz’ citizen-science project have revealed high nitrate levels in two East Hampshire waterways.

Upper Neatham Pond in Holybourne recorded 10 milligrams of nitrate per litre, the highest reading on the project’s 1 to 10 scale. This level indicates severe nutrient pollution and falls within the ‘poor-high’ ecological status range.

Additionally, testing at the River Wey by Pooh Sticks Bridge in Liphook showed nitrate levels between 2 and 5 mg/l, placing that section in the moderate-to-high range. While phosphate levels at the Liphook site remained low, the nitrate findings in both locations indicate a ‘poor ecological status’ according to local officials.