Originally known as Maroochy Waterwatch, our Water Monitoring Program was the first citizen science program we launched back in 1993, and it is still going strong today. In fact, we have recently celebrated 30 years of volunteer leveraged water quality assessments across the Maroochy River catchment.

Using our collection of Horiba U-52 multi probe analysers, our trained volunteers test the water quality of over 50 river and creeks across the Sunshine Coast. Locations include various sites along Petrie Creek, Paynter’s Creek, Stumer’s Creek, Eudlo Creek, Cornmeal Creek, Maroochy River and many other connecting tributaries.

The data we collect, such as turbidity, dissolved oxygen and salinity levels, is stored and utilised for assessment with any initial concerns reported through to Sunshine Coast Council. Each water monitoring kit is calibrated monthly to ensure data accuracy and all quality assurance procedures have been developed in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.

The program is believed to be the longest ongoing citizen science project in Queensland, which is a testament to both our past and present dedicated volunteer team, as supported by our Community Engagement department.

We are always on the lookout for passionate new volunteers, if you are interested please register your interest and we will be in touch.