Sewage spill data has been released for 2023. We have analysed the data provided by The Rivers Trust Sewage Map and we are very concerned about our findings. The North Wales Rivers Trust catchment has some of the highest statistics for the whole of Wales.

Llanbrynmair CSO on the Afon Dyfi has the highest record of spills in all of Wales, with spills totaling a shocking duration of 8 months and 10 days. Llanbrynmair has topped the highest list for the last three years! Coming in worst for Wales in 2021, 2nd place in 2022 and now back in 2023 with an even higher spill duration- this is just not acceptable.

The North Wales ( and North Mid) catchment that we represent sees approximately 22% of Wales total sewage spills, meaning in 2023 sewage was spilt for a total duration of 26 years, 2 months and 27 days. These statistics show that CSO’s are pouring huge quantities of sewage into our waterways and effecting water quality for wildlife, human health and water quality. Change is long overdue.

At the North Wales Rivers Trust we are calling on Dwr Cymru to ensure ALL assets are monitored and they stay below the legal permitted limit. We are also calling on Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru / Natural Resources Wales to take enforcement action where necessary.

What can you do to help?

Monitoring

You can consult The Rivers Trust Sewage Map to locate your local CSO and report when you see it operating. You can take part in an Outfall Safari and report signs of pollution. Join our Lab Dwr programme and help to monitor key sites across the catchment so we can demonstrate the impact of these spills.

Remember: Avoid entering the water immediately downstream of these discharges and avoid the storm overflows for 48 hours after heavy rain.

Campaigning

You can write to your local political representatives, using the available tools on The Rivers Trust Website Here.

Support us

There are loads of ways you can support:-

• Sign up to our Lab Dwr Ambassador programme today and help to compile the scientific data needed on your local river.

• Time - sign up to volunteer on a citizen science scheme

• Financially - you could donate money or fund raise to help support a project

If you are interested in finding out more about how you can support #endsewagepollution follow us on social media @northwalesriverstrust or email poppy@northwalesriverstrust.org