Pollution of groundwater rivers, lakes and streams

Water resources such as rivers and lakes can be polluted in a number of ways. This includes:

  • illegal discharge of waste
  • leaching of historical contamination, such as colliery spoil
  • by the misuse of fertilisers or plant feed

TheĀ Environment Agency is the main enforcing authority that deal with the pollution of water resources.

If you suspect that sewage, or other pollutants, are being discharged into a watercourse, it's vital you report this as soon as possible. Please inform the Environment Agency by calling 0800 807 060. They may be able to look into the problem and minimise the impact on the environment.