Drought Advice Note to Paddlers

As you are aware many parts of the country are experiencing long periods of hot, dry weather. 

The lack of rain places a great strain on the environment and our sport. The dry spell is already impacting on our waterways where we are seeing lower river levels than normal with some more of the smaller rivers drying up which will affect fish and wildlife. Therefore it is important to follow guidelines when you are either considering to paddle or when you are on the water.

Advice to Paddlers

We recommend that you consider the following actions in order to minimise the risk to both yourself and the natural environment:

• 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.

• If you encounter shallower areas, read the water and seek out a deeper channels where possible as your new route.

 • If you paddle on a Canal, limit the number of times a lock has to open you should share the lock with other craft or simply portage around the lock.

• Low flows means there is less water to dilute effluent/run off from surrounding land and sewage treatment works. Be aware lower levels of water quality can present a potential health hazard.

• Be aware of toxic blue green algae which may be more common on our waterways at times of low water flow/quantity.

• Use water sparingly when washing down your equipment when following Stop The Spread/Check, Clean and Dry (biosecurity) guidance. If a hosepipe ban is introduced then it is permissible to use a hosepipe for biosecurity and health & safety measures in provisions under the Water Use (Temporary Bans) Order 2010.

•  Report incidents, pollution and damage to the environment such as fish deaths to the relevant authorities:

Natural Resources Wales for pollution and fish deaths: 0300 065 3000

The Canal and River Trust/Glandwr Cymru, Out of hours: 0303 040 4040

RSPCA for wildlife and animals in distress: 0990 55 59 99 

 For further advice in Wales, please contact phil.stone@canoewales.com