Background

The Environment Agency (EA) was alerted to a pollution incident near Marton cum Grafton on 18 June. Officers attended the site to assess the situation and identify measures to minimise any impact on the environment.

The source of the pollution was identified as an emptied fertiliser lagoon. The EA has been working closely with the landowner, who has installed containment measures to prevent further pollution reaching the River Ure via Bawter Carr Drain. In addition, material continues to be removed by tanker from the site.

Monitoring shows that ammonia levels in River Ure have improved significantly since these measures were implemented. Partners will continue to monitor water quality and assess any impacts on vegetation and wildlife over the coming days.

Public advice

While investigations and further environmental testing continue, we are advising members of the public to:

• Avoid entering Bawter Carr Drain and Holbeck Drain
• Keep dogs and other animals out of the water and away from affected areas
• Avoid using footpaths immediately adjacent to the drains where possible
• If you are affected by odours and experience discomfort, close doors and windows and limit time spent in the immediate area

Ongoing investigation

Although water quality is improving, investigations are ongoing and there may still be residual contamination present. Vegetation that has come into direct contact with elevated ammonia levels may continue to show signs of damage.

The mitigation measures requested by the Environment Agency have taken account of known drainage pathways in the area. We understand that some surrounding ditches drain into watercourses connected to the affected area, and these routes will continue to be assessed as part of the ongoing investigation, remediation planning and environmental monitoring programme.

We will provide updates as and when there is any new information to share.

Further information

If you have concerns or require further information, please contact the Environment Agency incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or visit www.gov.uk/report-environmental-problem.