Gov't hosts public consultation on protecting Island's waterways

Views sought on new environmental protection standards

Government is looking to consult the public on plans to improve water quality for the Island's waterways.

A proposed, new Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) would bring the Island in line with the UK and protect its waterways for people and wildlife.

The three-month consultation invites views on the introduction of new standards and what they mean for the environmental protection of the Island’s watercourses.

Water quality can be affected by many factors, including agricultural run-off, domestic sewage, and heavy metals from historic mining.

Upland streams need protection because they feed reservoirs for drinking water, while rivers support fish and provide opportunities for recreation.

Coastal waters are important as fisheries and for swimming, and high levels of pollution can threaten each of these ecosystems.

Any suspected pollution incidents can be reported to government by contacting the Environmental Protection Unit on 685885 or email environmentalprotection@gov.im