Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has launched the South Central Bathing Waters Project to investigate and improve water quality at Ogmore-by-Sea and Watch House Bay.
The two sites have been rated as having ‘poor’ water quality under the Bathing Water Regulations (2013) in recent years.
NRW environment officers are carrying out detailed investigations across the Ogmore catchment to trace sources of pollution, including on-site chemical testing and ecological surveys.
Leon, an environment officer with NRW, said: “Most people experience the sea at the end of the journey.
“But what affects water quality starts much further upstream.
“We are trying to connect all those pieces.
“Every sample, every test and every conversation helps us build a clearer picture of what is really going on, and reports from the public can make a real difference in helping us understand what’s happening.”
Officers are testing for pollutants such as ammonia and phosphate, and examining insect life in rivers to assess long-term water health.
The project also involves engagement with local communities through pop-up events on beaches and informal conversations along riverbanks.
The goal is to gather local insights and raise awareness of actions that can support cleaner bathing waters.
Dav Letellier, head of operations South Wales Central for NRW, said: “Improving bathing water quality at Ogmore-by-Sea and Watch House Bay is a challenge no single organisation can solve alone.
“By working together and sharing what we know, we can make more progress than any of us could separately.
“We are also committed to involving wider stakeholders and working with local communities.”
NRW encourages anyone who lives, works, or spends time in the area to get involved.
Suspected pollution can be reported to NRW online or via the incident hotline on 03000 65 3000.
