While a ‘nationally significant’ water shortfall grips England, paddlers should be mindful of their environmental impact in low-water conditions.
The National Drought Group met on Monday 11 August, with the current water shortfall situation in England now defined as a “nationally significant incident.”
Drought has been declared in Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire, Greater Manchester Merseyside and Cheshire, East Midlands, and the West Midlands), with six more experiencing prolonged dry weather.
Many river flows and reservoir levels in England are continuing to go down.
August has seen a return of drier conditions putting more pressure on struggling public water supplies and navigational waterways.
Paddlers will be seeing the impact of these draught conditions across canals and rivers.
It is important to remember certain parts of the Paddlers’ Code during this dry weather.
Please do not paddle on waterways which are too shallow, and where you may come into contact with the river or lake bed.
This may have the potential impact of disturbing wildlife, and their habitats, or attract allegations of disturbance.
Drought conditions impact river fish populations by reducing water levels and increasing water temperatures.
Please report incidents, pollution, and damage to the environment, such as fish deaths to the relevant authorities.
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Environment Agency for pollution and fish deaths 0800 80 70 60
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The Canal and River Trust 01923 201120 (Out of hours 0800 47 999 47)
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RSPCA for wildlife and animals in distress 0990 55 59 99 (24 hours)
Health Impacts
- Low flows means there’s less water to dilute effluent run-off from nearby land and sewage treatment works.
- Be aware, lower levels of water quality can present a potential health hazard
- Don’t drink from the water you’re paddling on
- Natural run-off is also more concentrated in lower water levels, so the risk of Weils and Leptospirosis is higher
- Be aware of toxic blue-green algae which may be more common on our waterways at times of low water flow/quantity
- Take a good bath or shower as soon as you can once you’ve been on the water
- Cover any cuts properly before paddling – you don’t want the river or canal water getting into it
- Make sure you wash your hands properly, or use antibacterial spray before eating anything
If you feel ill after paddling you should tell your doctor as soon as possible and let them know where, and when, you have been on the water.
Practical paddling considerations
If you encounter shallower areas, read the water and seek out a deeper channel where possible as your route.
Take special care when mounting and dismounting a paddleboard. With less water comes an increased risk of injury.
For more information in reducing this risk read our article here >>
Remember the banks and canal sides will be a lot further from the water. So be careful of the bigger drop.
Lower water also makes rocks and other obstacles that are usually underwater more present.
This increases the risk of fins, leashes, paddles, and kayaks snagging.