AI app could alert swimmers to river sewage levels

Yorkshire Water is launching a two-year trial for an AI-driven app designed to monitor river water quality in real time. The system will track pollution levels at 20 popular swimming spots, including the River Wharfe at Ilkley and Wetherby, using continuous water testing stations alongside manual samples collected four times weekly. Data will be refreshed every 15 minutes, with AI analyzing 7,800 datasets to predict bacteria levels accurately. The initiative, developed with software firm Unifae Technology, aims to provide immediate alerts rather than retrospective information. Yorkshire Water emphasized that the technology is necessary to supplement the limitations of standalone testing stations. Myles Cameron, a company representative, noted that while pollution prevention remains a priority, the app will help identify sources of contamination, including agricultural runoff. The project includes locations like the River Nidd at Knaresborough and sites in Harrogate, Scarborough, and Doncaster. Additional spots are expected to join soon. Campaigner Karen Shackleton welcomed the tool but stressed that ongoing checks via sewage maps remain essential until the app is fully operational. Yorkshire Water described the technology as 'leading-edge,' highlighting its potential to enhance public safety for swimmers, paddleboarders, and other river users. Dan Byles from Unifae Technology said the app will empower users with real-time data to make informed decisions about water activities.