Environment Agency monitoring River Ouse for ammonia

The Environment Agency has been on the River Ouse monitoring elevated ammonia levels.

It comes as Yorkshire Water said it identified the pollution in its raw water supply and shut down its water treatment works to protect water quality.

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As reported by The Press, some residents of Easingwold, Tollerton and surrounding areas with no or low water pressure overnight on Tuesday, June 22 and yesterday.

In an update at 11.03pm last night the company said some customers in Easingwold, Tollerton and surrounding areas “may still be experiencing low water pressure while we continue to respond” to the incident.

Ammonia is a sharp‑smelling chemical found in sewage and fertilisers which, at high levels in the river, can damage fish and other wildlife.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Our officers have been on site monitoring elevated ammonia levels in the River Ouse and working hard to identify the source of the pollution.

“We are investigating the incident and will not hesitate to take enforcement action if appropriate.”

The spokesperson added that its officers have been monitoring various locations on the River Ouse, including upstream of Beningbrough.

Environmental incidents can be reported to the Environment Agency via its hotline 0800 807060.