Warning over swimming after ammonia pollution in River Ouse
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Our officers have been on site monitoring elevated ammonia levels in the River Ouse and working hard to identify the source of the pollution.”
People have been warned against swimming in the River Ure or River Ouse in the hot weather, with Environment Agency officers investigating higher levels of ammonia.
Villagers in Marton-cum-Grafton, North Yorkshire, raised the alarm when they could smell ammonia coming from Goker Beck and noticed the water had gone jet black.
It is thought to originate from a breached bund of a slurry pit nearby.
Ammonia is a strong industrial chemical used to produce fertiliser, and can hurt your skin, eyes, throat, and lungs.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Our officers have been on site monitoring elevated ammonia levels in the River Ouse and working hard to identify the source of the pollution.
"We are investigating the incident and will not hesitate to take enforcement action if appropriate.”
North Yorkshire Coun Arnold Warneken called on members of the public to avoid swimming in the rivers, despite the sweltering weather, due to the pollution incident.
He said: “It’s devastating for wildlife, livestock and our whole community that such a big pollution event has taken place.
I’ve checked that the Director of Public Health has been informed.
“I’ve also spoken to Yorkshire Water who say that they are supporting the EA’s investigation by sampling the river Ouse for water quality.
“I would strongly advise residents or their pets to avoid entering any beck or river in the wider area until the extent of damage is established.
“It’s a lovely time of year and the sun’s shining, but please make sure that your pets, children and young people celebrating exams all keep out of the water."
Yorkshire Water said that the incident had led to low water pressure in the Easingwold area during the week, as the Ouse is one of the firm’s drinking water extraction points.
While all residents retained some water, Yorkshire Water distributed bottled water to those affected.
The supply has since resumed. A spokesperson said: “The pollution incident affecting the River Ouse, caused by a third party, had an impact on the raw water we use in the Easingwold and Tollerton areas.
“To protect the quality of the water we supply to customers, we took the precautionary step of temporarily shutting down our water treatment works.
“Our treatment works were back up and running quickly and water quality met our high standards throughout, despite some customers experiencing lower water pressure at times."