A Day on the Wandle: Kicking Off Our eDNA Project

Yesterday marked the exciting start of our eDNA project on the River Wandle—an incredible day spent tracing the river from source to mouth, collecting samples and stories along the way. It was also an opportunity to learn more about the recent, devastating diesel spill and at some points along the river there were still clear traces of diesel and a lingering smell.

Setting off in Carshalton with Dr Lewis Campbell from Trace Biomonitoring, Dr Jack Hogan, and Evie, we began taking water and stone samples at key points along the river. The goal? To map the hidden biodiversity of the Wandle using environmental DNA (eDNA), offering a snapshot of the life teeming beneath the surface.

As we moved downstream, we met many curious and enthusiastic local residents who were eager to learn about the project and share their own experiences of the river. One of the most memorable moments came in Wandsworth, where we met Stan— a local resident who recognised Jack from past volunteering days. In a beautiful full-circle moment, Stan invited us into his riverside garden, offering access to the river so we could collect stone samples right from his backyard.

The samples we collected will now be analysed, with the findings to be shared as part of the Testing the Waters section at the UK River Summit on July 8th at Morden Hall. Join us to hear what the River Wandle reveals about itself—and how eDNA can help shape the future of river health.

👉 Learn more and get your ticket at www.theriversummit.com