River Yealm Water Quality Group
Running from Dartmoor National Park to the South Devon coastline, the River Yealm is subject to outputs from as many as 9 sewage treatment works, 2 China clay works, agriculture, landfill, aggregate recycling works and 2 business parks. Our aim is to help preserve ecological health and more.
Published: 10 September 2025
The River Yealm Water Quality Group (RYWQG) was set up in 2021, comprised of representatives from each of our seven riparian Parish Councils (Brixton, Cornwood, Ermington, Newton & Noss, Sparkwell, Wembury and Yealmpton), including local people and organisations concerned about river water quality, with specific attention to inputs of treated and untreated sewage, industrial and/or agricultural wastes.
The RYWQG meets every two months, Chaired by Councillor Liz Hitchins of Brixton Parish Council.
Main activities include:
• measuring river water quality and ecological status throughout our catchment, including on seven main tributaries;
• identifying and reporting upon specific areas of concern;
• raising awareness of river water quality issues; and
• developing catchment-wide partnerships to help implement improvements.
A full up-to-date description of activities, findings and recommendations, with links to associated documents and websites, can be found on the RYWQG website at https://rywqg.com
All volunteers are welcome!
To get involved, or for further information, please email: clerk@brixtonparishcouncil.gov.uk