Highest-ever pollution levels recorded in Suffolk river

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 11:31 · Archive

Water samples from the Haughley Watercourse in Suffolk have recorded the highest pollution levels ever measured.

Water samples from the Haughley Watercourse, a major tributary of the River Gipping, have recorded the highest-ever pollution levels detected in the water. The Environment Agency was made aware of the 'extremely high' levels of pollution following recent testing at Fishponds in Haughley.

The River Gipping Trust reported phosphate levels of 14,200 ppb and ammonia levels of 4.06ppm, along with E. coli levels of 22,000 cfu/100ml and nitrate levels of 60ppm. These readings have been reported to the Environment Agency.

Phosphate acts as a fertiliser in rivers and can cause algal blooms, oxygen depletion and harm to aquatic life. Elevated ammonia is typically associated with sewage discharges, animal waste or decaying organic matter. The level of E. coli suggests the water may contain sewage or animal waste and could pose a health risk. The pollution is likely to cause significant habitat stress for fish and other local animals that depend on the river for water.

How it is being reported

• 'Highest-ever' pollution levels recorded in river the runs through SuffolkWater samples taken at Haughley Watercourse, which flows into the River Gipping, have recorded the highest pollution levels ever.East Anglian Daily Times · 19 Oct, 10:55
• 'Highest-ever' pollution levels recorded in river the runs through SuffolkWater samples taken at Haughley Watercourse, which flows into the River Gipping, have recorded the highest pollution levels ever.Ipswich Star · 19 Oct, 10:55

In this story: Haughley Watercourse · River Gipping · Environment Agency · River Gipping Trust · Suffolk

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