A new, countywide approach to improving water quality is taking shape in Devon, with plans agreed to bring together the many organisations and groups involved in caring for rivers, streams, estuaries and coastal waters.

The aim is simple but important: to move from fragmented activity to a clearer, more joined‑up picture of who is responsible for what, where action is already happening, and where more collective effort could make the biggest difference. At present, only a small proportion of surface waters meet national standards for good ecological health, with pressures ranging from agricultural runoff and urban pollution to wastewater discharges and the growing impacts of climate change on rainfall and flooding.

Under the new approach, the county council will take on a strategic convening role, working with regulators, water companies, local authorities, landowners, community groups and others. Together, they will build a shared understanding of water quality challenges by mapping pollution sources and hotspots, clarifying statutory roles, and improving transparency about what data is collected and how it is used.

A key milestone will be Devon’s first Water Quality Summit. This event is designed to support shared learning, open discussion and agreement on practical next steps. It will also help shine a light on the significant amount of work already under way, while identifying where better coordination could deliver added benefits for people, communities and nature.

This kind of collaborative, evidence‑led approach supports Devon’s wider journey towards a resilient, net‑zero future. Cleaner water systems are closely linked to healthy ecosystems, climate adaptation and community wellbeing.

Read more at Devon County Council