Biofilm Survey Training

Researchers from Cranfield University are looking for your help to monitor river pollution events through collecting biofilm samples on rocks!

Erin Doyle and Dr Robert Grabowski are coming to deliver a training day for citizen scientists interested in helping with their research project using biofilm analysis to detect pollution:

"River ecosystems are affected by people in numerous ways, including through intensive land use, water abstraction, and pollution. This makes it difficult to determine which pressures are having the greatest impact at specific locations.

In our research, we are using cutting-edge genetic sequencing technology to diagnose the underlying reasons for poor river health. We are focusing on the riverbed, where complex communities of microorganisms, known as biofilms, form on rocks and other submerged surfaces. We aim to determine how different combinations of pressures affect the biofilms, and identify key biofilm-markers that can be used to assess pressures, allowing for targeted mitigation and restoration in the future."

What the training day involves:

During this short training session, Erin and Robert will discuss their research aims and demonstrate the technique of collecting biofilm samples. They will also hand out the equipment you will need to collect and label the samples.

What will volunteering involve after the day:

-Surveying over autumn/winter 2025/2026

-When you notice potential pollution events and heavy rainfall events, going out to collect rocks from the riverbed

-Repeating the sample a few times across the next couple of weeks by collecting rocks from the same location

-Freezing the biofilm rock samples, and contacting Erin and Robert who will arrange collection for analysis

This survey is low commitment timewise - it only takes a few minutes to collect the rock sample, and this can be done at a time that suits you e.g. weekends, evenings etc. It can also be when you're out doing other surveys eg riverfly, or just walking along the Chess.

You will only need to collect a few samples across the season.

Erin and Robert can advise you on locations, but they are keen for people to pick local sites that are convenient for you to visit and collect samples.

Meeting point:

Chesham Moor. We will meet by the footbridge access to Chesham Moor, near our recent restoration project and the beach access.

Google Maps Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WHV5hQdtDFh8J1sT7

W3W: ///closet.slang.goats

Parking:

There is some on street parking next to the meeting point at Bois Moor Road. There is a larger free car park a short walk away on Moor Road before you pass the lido: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rRdeUbUqQDo7b23R9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chess Smarter Water Catchment

This citizen science event is hosted by the Chilterns National Landscape as part of the Chess Smarter Water Catchment project. Please see our website for more information on citizen science activities: River Chess Smarter Water Catchment

If you have any questions about the day or the research, please email us at [email protected].

If you cannot make this training session you can still get involved! Send us an email at [email protected] and we can send you the information on survey technique, and arrange collection of equipment for you.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Chilterns National Landscape