Reconnaissance surveys to assess sources of diffuse pollution in rural catchments in East Anglia, eastern England – implications for policy

In: Water and environment journal, Band 26, Heft 2, S. 200-211

Abstract

AbstractReconnaissance surveys were made to assess sources of diffuse pollution in the Wissey, Blyth, Little Ouse and Wensum catchments in East Anglia, eastern England. Water‐eroded fields and the state of watercourses, roads and tracks were noted and photographed along traverses made across the catchments. Volumes of soil moved were estimated. River nutrient concentrations and turbidity were examined. Nutrient enrichment of watercourses is mostly explained by effluent leaving small Sewage Treatment Works. Sediment in watercourses can come not only from eroded fields but also from roads and tracks and erosion of the channels themselves. Farmers and land managers are not the only ones who must be targeted to curtail enrichment and sedimentation of watercourses. Policy makers need to take such findings into account if water quality in East Anglia is to be improved. Exploratory surveys can indicate sources of pollutants and be a basis for further investigation or ameliorative action.