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
The 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 it. Please tell them as soon as possible by calling 0800 807 060. They may be able to look into the problem and minimise the impact on the environment.