CRKC launches report investigating sources of faecal pollution and risks in the river Kent

The Clean River Kent Campaign (CRKC), in collaboration with the University of Sheffield, has published a new study examining the nature of faecal pollution in the River Kent, Cumbria. Focusing on samples taken above and below two wastewater treatment works (WwTW) at Staveley and Kendal, the study sheds new light on the sources and potential risks of microbial pollution in this important waterway.

The findings clearly identify Staveley WwTW as a significant source of human faecal contamination and potentially pathogenic bacteria. Given its location upstream of the settlements of Burneside and Kendal, this is a cause for concern. Above Staveley WwTW, the human faecal content in the river water was around half that of ruminant sources. Below the WwTW, however, the human contribution increased dramatically, to around five times that of ruminant.

River water samples, collected by CRKC volunteers, were analysed using a molecular DNA technique known as Microbial Source Tracking (MST). This method identifies genetic markers in bacteria that are specific to human or ruminant intestinal sources and can also detect potentially harmful bacterial species affecting both wildlife and humans.

Results showed that wastewater treatment works are a major source of faecal pollution in the river, with levels increasing during warmer periods and following heavy rainfall. While levels at Kendal WwTW were much lower, reflecting more effective treatment, Staveley WwTW consistently emerged as the primary source of human faecal contamination in the River Kent.

The study also detected pathogenic bacteria capable of causing illnesses in humans, including severe pneumonia, gastrointestinal infections, and wound infections, although these were present in low proportions. Many were opportunistic pathogens, posing a significant risk mainly to vulnerable individuals. Potentially harmful bacteria for wildlife were also identified. It’s important to note that the presence of bacterial DNA does not necessarily mean the organisms are viable or capable of causing disease, but it does indicate a potential risk that warrants further investigation.

John Soady, CRKC lead on Citizen Science, commented: “Currently the health of the public and ecology are underrated in analyses of river water quality. There is no monitoring by any UK agency of the microbial content in the River Kent or the potential associated risk for both humans and wildlife, despite its ecological importance. This needs to change.”

CRKC’s study highlights the importance of understanding and addressing microbial pollution in rivers. Continued monitoring, improved wastewater treatment, and public awareness are crucial to safeguarding both human and ecological health in the River Kent.

Full Press release here.