Environment Agency protect pond's water quality

The Environment Agency helped protect the water quality of a Lincolnshire pond after it was polluted.

On Sunday (March 13th 2011), environmental officers were alerted to an incidence of oil pollution at a fishing pond in Queen Elizabeth II Park in Grantham.

A member of the Grantham Angling Association's fishing club told the agency of the pollution and officers confirmed that there was waste engine oil on the surface of the water.

Environment officer Laura Boath said the drop in water quality at the waterway could have threatened its wildlife such as great crested newts and white-clawed crayfish.

Oil pollution is dangerous to fish and other pond species as it removes oxygen from the water.

She added: "The person responsible could have seriously damaged this important local facility and conservation area."

The Environment Agency issues guidance to companies that deal in the treatment and storage of waste oil to prevent incidences of spills and pollution occurring.

Posted by Lauren Steadman