If you suspect pollution in our river, it’s important you report it quickly and accurately. Here’s how.
The River Ouzel and Clipstone Brook in Leighton Buzzard are classed as being in ‘moderate’ health by the Environment Agency. But factors including storm overflows, sewage discharges, chemicals from agriculture and road pollution run-off are causing constant pressure on the health of our river and the wildlife that lives there.
We can all help by reporting any incidents of water pollution that we witness. Due to the number of Environment Agency staff being systemically reduced by successive governments, public reporting can help highlight where problems are, helping to focus the limited Environment Agency resources.
What to look for
There are a number of signs to look for that could mean there’s pollution or a blockage in the waterway:
- A fatty oil, greasy film or rainbow sheen on the surface of the water – this can be a sign of road run off containing oil, brake and plastic tyre residues.
- A pure-white, fragrant foam or milky-looking fluid – this could be a sign of detergent from sewage pollution.
- Human waste, sewage and smells – this can look brown or milky grey.
- Sewage litter like wet wipes, toilet paper and sanitary products.
- Unusual coloured water
- Dead or gasping fish
- An abundance of algae – some is normal but a lot can be a sign of sewage or agricultural pollution such as fertilisers or manure.
How to report a problem
If you see something in the river or brook that you think isn’t right, it’s important to report it straight away to the 24-hour Environment Agency incident hotline, or Anglian Water.
- Know your location – use an app like What3Words, OS Locate or a grid reference on Google Maps.
- Take photos and/or video.
- Get an accurate description – notice the colours, smells, how far in the river it extended, and if you could see where it was coming from.
Who to report it to
- 24-hour Environment Agency reporting website or the incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60
- Anglian Water either online or by calling 03457 145 145