Latest news with #IntestinalEnterococci
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Survey reveals ‘poor' summer bathing water quality in parts of Windermere
A two-year study has provided the most detailed picture to date of water quality in Windermere and its catchment. The Big Windermere Survey, led by the Freshwater Biological Association (FBA) and Lancaster University, involved 350 citizen scientists who collected more than 1,000 water samples from 110 locations across 10 sampling events over two and a half years. Many of the locations had not previously been tested. The report analysed 15 water quality parameters, focusing on phosphorus, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Intestinal Enterococci (IE) – key indicators of ecosystem health and suitability for recreation. READ MORE: Lake District resident renews calls for action to save 'world famous' view Results showed that concentrations of E. coli and IE were highest in summer months, when the lake is most used for bathing and watersports. During this period, bacterial levels in the northwest, northeast and southwest areas of Windermere were consistent with standards for 'poor' bathing water quality. In spring, autumn and winter, lower concentrations of bacteria were consistent with 'Excellent' or 'Good' bathing water quality across all areas. Phosphorus concentrations across the lake met the UK's 'moderate' status under legislation, which is higher than the threshold required for 'good' status. READ MORE: Historic Lake District town named in UK's top three locations to buy a holiday let Dr Ben Surridge, senior lecturer at Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University said: "The Big Windermere Survey is a unique collaboration between professional scientists and members of various communities with an interest in the water quality of Windermere and its catchment. "This collaboration has generated an unprecedented dataset which offers new insights into the spatial and temporal patterns of water quality in Windermere, built on exactly the same robust, scientific approaches used in water quality research. "We look forward to working with partners within the catchment to ensure that evidence generated by the Big Windermere Survey informs action that leads to real improvement in the water quality of this iconic lake." The study also highlighted localised hotspots for phosphorus or bacteria around Waterhead, Bowness Bay, Belle Isle, Millerground, Mitchell Wyke Bay, the south-western shore and near the River Leven outflow. Streams and rivers including Stock Ghyll, Black Beck, Mill Beck, Wilfin Beck and the River Rothay also showed elevated concentrations. Beyond the main lake, the survey gathered additional information on rivers and lakes across the wider Leven catchment. READ MORE: Lake District: Rescue crews scrambled to 'wrong Bowness' after call mix-up Simon Johnson, executive director of the Freshwater Biological Association, said: "We are incredibly grateful to the hundreds of volunteers who have given thousands of hours of their time to gather the scientific data in this report. The evidence is clear and must lead to decisive action to improve water quality. "We must all work together to transform the future of Windermere and deliver a cleaner, healthier and safer waterbody for all life to thrive. "Windermere is home to a number of rare and increasingly threatened freshwater species including Arctic charr. Without decisive action to improve water quality, this species and potentially many more will face a steady and devastating decline. "We hope these findings will not only advance scientific understanding of Windermere's water quality but also play a pivotal role in shaping future strategies to protect and enhance the health of the lake and its surrounding catchment." Subscribe for just £6 for 6 months in our Summer Flash Sale The data from the Big Windermere Survey is being actively shared with a range of organisations both locally and nationally, as part of ongoing conversations about the water quality of Windermere. The report released today, alongside all the underpinning data, is freely and openly available for anyone with an interest in Windermere to examine. The full report, link to the data and an overview of the Big Windermere Survey is available online at
North Wales Live
2 days ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
People warned not to swim at popular Llandudno beach after worrying findings
People are being advised not to take a dip off a popular Llandudno beach. Councillors sounded the alarm after being alerted to the presence of faecal bacteria off West Shore beach. Figures from Surfers Against Sewage show there have been more than 50 discharges from the area's Dale Road storm overflow in the last three months. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) monitors the waters for pollution and Conwy councillors were yesterday (Monday, August 18) updated on its findings. After seeing them, Cllr Louise Emery, of Llandudno's Gogarth Ward, went online to warn locals and visitors: 'Don't swim at West Shore!' She added: 'I received notification from the council this afternoon that recent bathing water samples are not up to standard and people are advised not to swim off the West Shore beach. 'Signs should be already down there but please pass the message onto your networks. The council will be updated via Natural Resources Wales when more water samples are taken.' According to Gogarth Mostyn representative Cllr Harry Saville, sampling revealed 'high levels' of intestinal Enterococci. As bacteria that live in animals, including humans, their presence in the Conwy estuary indicates possible contamination by faecal waste. The estuary's catchment extends around 15.5 miles (25km) to Betws-y-Coed. As well as sewage network overflows, the Afon Conwy and its tributaries capture seepage from sheep farming, forestry and old metal mines. Two storm overflows discharge near West Shore itself. One, the West Shore overflow, has been relative inactive in since May, with just two small incidents. However the Dale Road storm overflow has discharged 53 times in the past three months. While many of these discharges were relatively brief, there have been longers episodes, notably on June 14 (six hours and 30 mins) and May 28 (seven hours and 30 mins). Cllr Saville said: 'I'm very concerned that Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru/Natural Resources Wales has requested that the public are advised against bathing or paddling at West Shore due to high levels of Intestinal Enterococci found in a recent water sample. I believe that signage is due to be displayed to that effect. 'West Shore is popular with locals and visitors. It's essential that NRW and other stakeholders get a grip of this problem quickly.' Bathing quality downgraded In the past two years, NRW has downgraded West Shore's bathing quality from 'excellent' to 'good'. A four-year sampling period (2021-2024) found trace amounts of sewage debris on less than 10% of visits, and trace amounts of animal faeces on a minority of occasions. Litter was more common – trace amounts were identified on more than 50% of visits. Much less apparent were tarry residues, seen just once in June 2022. According to Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, a complex network of pumping stations operates at West Shore. One of these manages Afon Creuddyn, a culverted watercourse that runs through Llandudno and discharges at the Dale Road overflow . Periodic releases here are mostly surface water only, said the company. Heavy rain may result in releases containing a highly diluted mixture of wastewater and rainwater. This is permitted under environmental regulations, stressed Dŵr Cymru. Over the next five years, the company aims to spend £4bn upgrading its network. This will include £889m to upgrade storm overflows and a further £42m on improving bathing and shellfish waters at eight sites. Domestic pipe misconnections has been an historic issue affecting Llandudno's beaches. This is where householders mistakenly plumb waste water pipes into surface water drains instead of the foul water sewerage system. Successive campaigns have sought to address this issue. In 1999, major improvements were completed by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water for Conwy, Deganwy, Llandudno and Colwyn Bay. Sewage is now pumped to the Ganol Wastewater Treatment Works at Llandudno Junction and disinfected through ultra violet treatment. This scheme was designed to comply with the Shellfish Waters Directive, strictly regulating storage and the number of spills allowed.
The Journal
06-06-2025
- Climate
- The Journal
Swimming banned for entire season at Sandymount and temporary ban in place at Dollymount
SWIMMING HAS BEEN banned for the entirety of the bathing season at Sandymount Strand, while a temporary ban is in place at Dollymount Strand. This year's bathing season runs from 1 June to 15 September. A swimming restriction is in place at Sandymount Strand for the entirety of the bathing season due to poor water quality. The water has been deemed to be poor based on 2021-2024 bathing assessments and as a result, a restriction has been imposed to prevent bathers from exposure to pollution. Meanwhile, a temporary restriction is in place at Dollymount Strand. Advertisement This ban was put in place on Tuesday but swimming is due to resume there tomorrow. This temporary ban was enacted due to water quality deteriorating due to suspected sewage discharge from a waste water treatment plant or sewer network. Dublin City Council said this discharge is likely the result of recent heavy rainfall. The ban is expected to be lifted to allow swimming to resume tomorrow, but the water has to be resampled and the HSE has to be consulted with before this can happen. Water quality is regularly monitored throughout the bathing season and it is tested for and Intestinal Enterococci. Dublin City Council also monitors water quality throughout the year, outside of the bathing season, on a fortnightly basis. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Irish Independent
24-04-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Launch of cross-border environmental group to take place in Omeath on Saturday
It follows on increased concerns about the impact of developments at Warrenpoint port, particularly the storage of waste by the Newry-based company ReGen Waste, with residents on both sides of the Lough complaining about foul smells, as well the noise coming from ships being emptied and loaded. They are also concerned about the water quality in the Lough and the consequences it has for the dredging of mussels and for sea swimmers. The group, comprising residents from both sides of the Lough, are keen to focus on ways of protecting the environment for the benefit of all those living and working along its shores. "We have a steering group but we are hoping to set up a committee to be the voice for all the towns, villages and communities around the Lough,' says Omeath resident Bernarde Kilgallon. "We also hope to set up sub-committees to focus on different topics, such as flora, fauna and wildlife, as well as things like water quality, and the setting up of a seal sanctuary.' The Carlingford Lough Keepers is being supported by other environmental campaigners, with RARE - Rostrevor Action Respecting the Environment urging people to support this new group. "The signs are clear that it's no longer enough to merely list the failings in the implementation of environmental protection', they posted on social media. 'Community action has shown that until politicians untangle themselves from whatever holds them in the stranglehold of silence, the voices and actions necessary for change can only come from the ground up. Please consider bringing your ideas and readiness for corrective action to this meeting in Omeath next Saturday.' Colin McGrath MLA South Down of the SDLP has voiced his support for the new group and has stated that he raised issues around water quality in Carlingford Lough, particularly near Warrenpoint and that the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) has confirmed they are now considering these issues. He also warned that he was worried that Carlingford Lough could suffer the same fate as Lough Neagh. 'For those of us who love Carlingford Lough, this is serious. I have found out that since 2015, nutrient levels have been consistently declining, and recent tests showed worryingly high levels of E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci (a bacteria associated with human and animal waste) – well above safe limits. If we don't act now, I'm really worried that this natural treasure could suffer the same fate as Lough Neagh.'
Yahoo
27-01-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Can London's rivers be swimmable within 10 years?
At 40 miles (64km) long, the River Roding is London's third largest river. From its source near Stansted airport, it snakes through Essex and the east of the capital, eventually ending up in the Thames. It is one of those rivers in the capital earmarked by the Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan as potentially clean enough to swim in as part of his plan to "to make rivers in London swimmable within 10 years". If he is to fulfil that promise, the Roding needs cleaning up. So what are the challenges facing this type of river to make them swimmable? And what lessons can be learned from the discoveries made on the Roding? The River Roding is surrounded by housing, industrial sites and crossed by the M25, North Circular Road and various train lines including the District line. It doesn't though have the dangerous currents or traffic of the Thames so feasibly could be a swimming spot. However while the river has a serene beauty passing through this industrial landscape, on a cold January day, the thought of it being a swimming spot within 10 years seems a bit fanciful. Paul Powlesland from The River Roding Trust, believes with interventions you could make the Roding swimmable but there are many significant challenges. He knows the river well. "I already swim in this river when it hasn't rained too much and the water quality is better and it's really lovely. It isn't impossible but it is a formidable challenge but it is solvable." "What we need is information to identify the problems, where pollution is entering the river and then real action to tackle that." A big issue is sewage. Paul shows us a surface water outfall that is also illegally dumping sewage straight into the Roding. It is disgusting and alarming. Wet wipes and toilet roll have caught on the grill. Paul says the outflow was only discovered by the River Trust and Thames Water didn't know about it. He says there are dozens more that are unidentified, and hundreds if not thousands across the capital that no-one has mapped. "We are trying to map where these outfalls are and then we need concerted action by Thames Water to fix them. Not in 30 or 40 years but in five years. "And if Thames Water doesn't do that then we need politicians like the mayor to force them to do it." London mayor warned over swimmable rivers pledge River Thames fishery restocked with 250 barbel Gates open on Thames Tideway Tunnel super sewer A recent survey by the environmental charity Thames21 and The River Roding Trust found untreated sewage discharges and unpermitted outfalls have caused dangerously high levels of bacteria to be found at multiple sites across a nine-mile (14.5km) stretch of the River Roding. Citizen scientists between 15 May and 30 September 2024 found that samples they took at seven sites failed to meet sufficient bathing water regulation standards for safe swimming for both E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci. While sewage eventually biodegrades, the same cannot be said for road runoff a toxic mix of chemicals, oil, tyre wear and plastics that comes from motor vehicles. At a recent hearing of the London Assembly Environment Committee, the Thames21 charity outlined how road runoff could be the biggest issue for the capital's rivers. John Bryden from Thames 21 said one section of the Pymes Brook in Enfield, in north London is so heavily polluted by runoff that only leeches can survive there. He said: "That's where we need to be getting into the detail and putting solutions in upstream so that pollution is held and treated in those wetlands and then we can remove that contamination." The Roding is surrounded by heavily used roads like the North Circular. When it rains, the road runoff floods the river. Paul Powlesland from The Roding Trust also thinks the mayor should persuade Transport for London (TfL) and the councils to do much more to catch the runoff before it gets to the river. "Road runoff is a big issue on the Roding. From when the river comes into London it's next to motorways all the way down to the Thames," said Mr Bryden. "All of the heavy metals, oil, pollutants, forever chemicals go straight from the road into the river. "In the long term that might even worse than sewage - at least sewage degrades - a lot of these chemicals just sit in the silt and will have to be remediated. "We need every single road outfall to be located, mapped and a solution put in place." There are handful of sites used for swimming on the Thames in west London like beyond Teddington lock where it is non-tidal. But it isn't permitted to swim in the tidal Thames where there are strong currents and it is a busy shipping lane. Any swimming in the Thames east of Putney Bridge is completely prohibited. On the Roding, land is owned by TfL and the local council and the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime. Getting access for the trust to carry out environmental work on some of the land has been time consuming. The trust wants a review of all public land to see how it can be used for swimming and public access. On the Roding, there is still a lot of rubbish even though the local charity carries out litter picks. There is a lot of fly tipping. The charity suggests the mayor could turbocharge the work of volunteers with extra funding. John Bryden is from the river charity Thames 21. He recently told the London Assembly members: "There needs to be a robust monitoring approach which includes citizen scientists and community organisations and charities and academics. "And that data needs to be integrated with Thames Water so it informs what happens and that holds organisations to account." "That monitoring also needs to identify the solution. We see lots of monitoring reports written and then forgotten. We need translate that into action." To clean up a river could come at a cost of between £5m and £20m but it could be much, much more. Thames21 thinks a blended approach to that funding including corporate sponsors is the best approach but any improvements would not be cheap. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said: "The mayor is producing a bold plan for cleaning up and protecting rivers in the capital so that Londoners can safely enjoy the benefits of nature – including swimming where safe to do so. "However, he knows the scale of the challenge means it will take the bringing together of many different organisations. "Sadiq is proud to have provided funding to make the Roding accessible to more Londoners, and will continue working to open up access to our waterways, to increase nature in them and to make them cleaner. "He will also hold the regulators and utilities to account – addressing not just sewage discharge, but missed connections and road run off." A spokesperson for Thames Water said: "As our infrastructure ages, and our population grows, more investment will be required. "The Thames Tideway Tunnel, a £4.5bn investment, is nearing completion. "This project, combined with previous upgrades we've made to our London sewage works and the building of the Lee Tunnel, will capture 95% of the volume of untreated sewage currently entering the tidal Thames in a typical year. "We have published plans to upgrade over 250 of our sewage treatment works and sewers to treat the high volumes of incoming sewage and reduce the need for overflows during wet weather. "In London, we're spending £145m upgrading Beckton sewage works." Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to Mayor of London Transport for London (TfL) The River Roding Trust Thames21 Thames Water
