Welcome to the Otter Valley Association

The Otter Valley Association is a civic charity that campaigns to celebrate and protect the Otter Valley. Guided by the rich heritage of this region, we advocate for appropriate and sustainable development that addresses the modern needs of society with necessary infrastructure in the face of enormous economic, cultural and climate change.

NEW: Budleigh Beach water testing service

The Otter Valley Association has launched a new community water testing web app to give local swimmers, paddleboarders and other beach users a clearer, more up-to-date view of bathing water quality at Budleigh’s beaches - at the start of every weekend. Click on the image to the left, or use the URL shown.

These results show the condition of the water at the time the sample was collected. They are not live measurements, and water quality can change quickly due to rainfall, tides, river flows, storm overflows and weather conditions. The water may therefore be cleaner — or more polluted — by the time you read the result, particularly if there has been significant rainfall after testing.

Anyone entering the water does so at their own risk and should consider all available information before doing so.

We promote ecology, nature conservation, and the wellbeing and health of our communities of families - young and old alike. We campaign for clean water in our rivers and seafront, thriving biodiversity, and enjoyment for our communities.

We organise talks, guided walks and events. We have working groups focusing on areas such as the Nature, Water Quality, Climate Change and Heritage. We publish a printed magazine called "Otter Life" and have a growing and dynamic community of supporters on Facebook and social media.

Anyone who is interested in the Otter Valley may join, wherever they live.

We are always looking for help. If you have a passion for the community, nature or the environment, and you have a few hours to spare, why not help? Click here for some of the areas where we would welcome help.