Donegal has received a mixed report in the latest Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study.
An analysis of change over time has shown that nitrogen levels have ‘significantly increased’ in four water bodies from 2012 to 2022, including Swilly Estuary and Mulroy Bay.
However, Killybegs Harbour was only one of just two water bodies in the country that showed a significant decrease in winter median phosphate concentrations during the same period.
Overall, nationally, the report shows no improvement in the water quality of Irish rivers, lakes, estuaries or coastal waters.
The EPA’s annual Indicators Report looks at biological quality and nutrient levels around the country, using monitoring data collected in 2022.
It said there was no significant change recorded last year, with any improvements offset by declines elsewhere.
The EPA said nitrogen levels increased in rivers and groundwater, while phosphorus levels were stable but still too high.
Excess nutrients like these cause an overgrowth of plants and algae in water courses, using up oxygen and impacting fish and other aquatic life.
The agency is calling on the agriculture sector and Uisce Éireann to do more to deal with runoff and wastewater discharges, to limit the impact on rivers and lakes.
EPA Director of Assessment Dr Eimear Cotter described the failure to improve standards as “extremely disappointing”.
She said nutrient levels would have to be reduced before Ireland would be able to meet its objectives in relation to water quality.
The report states that one of the most significant stressors on water quality and ecosystem health are these high nutrient levels.
Nitrogen levels, mainly from agriculture’s fertilisers and manures, were found to be too high in 40% of river sites and in a fifth of estuarine and coastal water bodies.
Phosphorus levels, chiefly from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharges, are generally stable, but are still too high in many rivers and lakes.
The EPA said Ireland should fully implement the European Nitrates Action Programme, by enhancing compliance and having targeted agricultural inspections.
It said Uisce Éireann must prioritise investment in areas where wastewater is impacting water quality.
The agency said the Department of Local Government’s forthcoming River Basin Management Plan must provide a comprehensive series of actions to address all the pressures on the water environment.
Tags:
