A community-led environmental monitoring project has raised concerns about water quality in runoff entering the Bot River Estuary and Bot Lagoon Ramsar System at Fisherhaven.
The Fisherhaven Lagoon Watch Citizen Science Action Project was launched by Stonefly Environmental Education (SEE), collaborating with the Fisherhaven Homeowners' Association, during National Water Week in September.
Residents received training on 17 September before undertaking their first monitoring exercise at the Fisherhaven public slipway on 21 September.
The group recorded factors including water clarity, temperature, odours, surface films, algal growth, wildlife distress, bird diversity and possible pollution. The aim was to establish a long-term record of the estuary’s ecological health.
Initial samples produced concerning results, including a reading of 139 coliform bacteria above the stated acceptable level, and an E. coli count close to the acceptable range. Screening test for hydrogen-sulphide-producing bacteria suggested faecal contamination. Chemical testing recorded approximately 5ppm total chlorine.
The project leaders stressed that the sample from runoff entering the lagoon, not from the lagoon, meant the results could not be used to assess the overall safety or quality of the lagoon water.
The findings highlighted the need for further investigation and continued monitoring. The project’s results, shared with CapeNature and Overstrand Municipality, will support collaborative environmental management and early detection of potential problems.
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