The study, which was done in conjunction with the University of Sheffield, focused on samples taken above and below the wastewater treatment works.
Dr Isabel Douterelo Soler, from the university, visited the sample sites and worked with the citizen scientists before they carried out testing from May to October 2024.
In the water above the works, the human faecal content of river water was about half that of animal, but below, the human content increased to about five times that of animal.
Samples were also taken from treatment works at Kendal, where faecal bacteria levels in the river were “much lower than Staveley’s”, the CRKC said.
The Environment Agency said it was investigating UU for its operation of storm overflows at Staveley and, if appropriate, would act in line with its enforcement and sanctions policy.
“We have worked with United Utilities to secure projects at the Staveley site to reduce the number of spills into the River Kent, striving toward improved water quality in this catchment,” a spokesperson said.