Leisure and Water
We know people love visiting the great outdoors, but during their time in our catchments it is important to help safeguard water quality and the wider environment.
The beautiful landscape in our drinking water catchments makes them very popular destinations for people taking part in various leisure activities, which contributes significantly to the local tourism economy.
Responsible access to land and water by people and pets plays a significant role in positively impacting water quality and protects sensitive habitats in these areas.
Significant efforts have been made in recent years by local communities and organistions to raise awareness of best practice to reduce impacts on water quality. We want to help promote those best practice messages to visitors to help safeguard drinking water quality and the wider environment.
Read on to find out how anyone spending time in our catchments can do their bit to safeguard water quality and the wider environment.
Responsible Access to Land
Activities such as hiking, camping, campfires/BBQs and off-road driving can introduce littering, cause wildfires and disturb soil and vegetation. These can lead to increased soil erosion and sediment which affect aquatic habitats and local watercourses.
Always use designated trails and sites for hiking, camping or driving off road to reduce soil erosion. Dispose of waste and litter appropriately. Only light campfires and BBQs in designated areas. Always follow the Countryside Code.
Responsible Access to Water
Activities like boating, fishing, and swimming can introduce pollutants such as oil, fuel, and litter into the water. These contaminants degrade water quality and can require additional treatment processes at the downstream treatment works. Additionally, always use the sanitation facilities provided, to avoid introducing pathogens into the water which will affect its quality.
Unauthorised swimming at any of our reservoirs is prohibited and is extremely dangerous – learn more from our One Last Breath Campaign. Open water swimming sessions are held at a few sites and are regulated under the close supervision of our fully trained team. Find out more here.
Restrict access to water from pets receiving treatment for fleas and ticks as the insecticide in the vet treatment can be leached into the water and impact water quality and biodiversity.