What We Do (Protecting the Dart)

Protecting the River Dart requires more than good intentions — it requires evidence, monitoring, and practical action. Our club supports conservation by tracking water quality, reporting incidents quickly, and working with partner organisations to protect and restore the river. Our water quality work, facilited by our partners includes

Testing for:

• bacteria and contamination indicators (including E. coli where applicable)
• pH levels
• alkalinity
• other basic chemical indicators that help identify changes in river health

Recording conditions such as flow, temperature, discolouration, odour, and insect activity

Building evidence over time to identify patterns and persistent issues

What healthy water looks like

• Oxygen-rich: Good dissolved oxygen keeps fish active, reduces stress, and supports insects. Low oxygen is most common during warm, low-flow periods.
• Stable pH: A steady pH supports insect life and healthy development of eggs and fry. Sudden shifts can cause damage long before it becomes visible.
• Low nutrients: Excess nutrients can trigger algae and reduce oxygen. Healthy rivers maintain a natural balance.
• Clean gravels / low silt: Fine silt smothers spawning gravels, reduces oxygen in the gravel bed, and harms salmon and trout survival.
• Abundant insect life: Mayflies, stoneflies and caddis are key indicators of river health — and essential food for fish.
• Natural flow and temperature: Cool, shaded water improves oxygen levels and resilience, especially in summer.

In short: a healthy Dart is oxygenated, stable, insect-rich, and naturally functioning.