Your view on improving water quality in rivers and lakes sought
Westmeath rivers are under threat from pollution – what does that mean and what can be done about it?
River Brosna
People in Westmeath are being asked for their views on what can be done to improve water quality in local rivers as recent reports show the effects of climate change are becoming more noticeable.
A public consultation on the Draft River Basin Management Plan is under way, and it offers a chance to have a say.
Agencies responsible for protecting Ireland’s rivers have found that agriculture, forestry, and urban wastewater treatment are the leading causes of pollution in rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters.
Basil Mannion, Community Water officer with the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO), said: “There’s a big effort involving a lot of organisations trying to pinpoint what’s happening in our rivers, and we need local people to help us get a better understanding.
“We live in unprecedented times. The effects of climate change and loss of biodiversity are clear, and this will have knock-on effects for our health and wellbeing. This is especially true with water quality in our rivers.”
LAWPRO works with the 31 local authorities in Ireland, assessing the condition and health of rivers. While some rivers have improved, unfortunately half the rivers and lakes in Ireland are failing to meet good water quality standards.
“We need urgent action to stop the decline, reverse the damage, and protect these vital natural resources,” said Mr Mannion.
Readers are asked to register and attend one of the two Westmeath consultation meetings online, on Wednesday February 16 of and Thursday February 17.
The meetings will provide vital information on the Draft River Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2022-2027, a question and answer session, and a discussion on local issues.
“This is your chance to have your say and put forward your views on what needs to be done to help the rivers and lakes of Westmeath,” said Mr Mannion.
Register for your local meeting at www.lawaters.ie or via Facebook @LAWPROteam. You can contact LAWPRO’s Head office at 052 616 6230. Further details about the meetings will be published in upcoming editions.
For information on the Draft River Basin Management plan 2022 -2027 visit the virtual consultation room at LAwaters.ie.