Environment
Community Water Monitoring Initiative
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WATERCAN
The CraigPark Residents Association (CRA) is proud to partner with WaterCAN in a citizen-led effort to monitor and protect the health of our local river systems. This initiative empowers our community to take an active role in tracking water quality, identifying risks early, and advocating for a cleaner, safer environment for all who live near or rely on the spruit.
Why Monitor Our Water?
Our river is more than a stream — it’s a living system that supports biodiversity, contributes to the broader catchment, and runs through the heart of our greenbelt. But it’s also vulnerable to:
- Pollution from stormwater runoff, litter, and sewage leaks
- Degraded water quality from urban development and dumping
- Health risks posed by harmful bacteria or chemical spikes
By regularly testing water at key sites, we’re able to monitor for these threats in real-time and share the results transparently with residents and municipal authorities.
What We Test For
Using WaterCAN’s community science test kits, we assess:
- Chemical parameters like nitrates, phosphates, chlorine, and pH
- Microbial contamination including E. coli and coliform bacteria
- Visual and physical indicators such as colour, smell, litter, and damage
These data points allow us to detect both short-term pollution events and long-term trends that could threaten our ecosystem or community health.
About Watercan
WaterCAN is a non-profit initiative of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA). Their mission is to:
Build a network of empowered citizens who are actively involved in monitoring, protecting, and advocating for South Africa’s water resources
WaterCAN provides the training, tools, and national platform that make community-based water quality monitoring possible. Learn more at www.watercan.org.za
Reports and Results
Transparency is key. We upload all water sample results, monthly reports, and periodic reviews to this page so residents can stay informed and engaged. Click below to explore:
View Water Sample Results
How You Can Help
- Join a Clean-Up Day — we hold regular events to tackle litter and raise awareness.
- Report pollution or sewage smells — these tips help us track issues between testing cycles.
- Spread the word — help others understand why water quality matters.