Boating advice on Lough Erne this Summer

16 August 2024 9:55

As we enjoy our summer breaks, there is nothing more enjoyable than a boat trip on Lough Erne. NI Water wishes anyone who is boating on the Lough to enjoy it safely and to consider the environment when doing so.

The Erne system is a rare and complex blend of lakes, rivers, inlets and islands which is a haven for wildlife and tourists as it offers peace and tranquility.

Unfortunately, all human activity has environmental consequences. To preserve this unique and special place it is essential that all users minimise their environmental impact. The Erne is a valuable amenity for health and recreation and, in addition, supplies drinking water for around 85,000 people.

NI Water is working with a wide range of stakeholders to reduce diffuse and point sources of pollution. Boating on the Erne is very popular and there are a number of things that can be done to minimise the impact of boats on the aquatic environment.

Perhaps one of the most important is to comply with the Prevention of Pollution (Erne System) Regulations (NI) 1994, which are often referred to as the Erne Regulations. In common with many inland navigations this legislation makes it an offence to have a toilet on a boat capable of making a discharge directly into the waterway. Discharges of untreated sewage from boats can result in a deterioration in water quality and is a source of bacterial contamination which can be a serious risk to health if the water is swallowed whilst swimming or taking part in contact water sports.

To prevent pollution there are a number of measures you can take when boating:

• Vessels must either have a holding tank for toilet waste which can then be pumped out at a shore side pumping station OR have a chemical toilet with its own self-contained holding tank.
• If your vessel has a diverter valve then it must be set to the holding tank when the vessel is on the Erne system.
• If you do not utilise the toilet facilities on board but it is capable of flushing directly into a waterway then you must close the sea cock and disconnect the pipework.
• Cooking waste, fats and oils should be binned and not put down the sink.
• Ensure all rubbish is kept onboard and then disposed of properly on land.
• Place drip trays below engines and gear boxes to prevent contamination of the bilges.
• It is permissible for boat shower and sink water to directly discharge into Lough Erne. However, it is recommended you use environmentally friendly soaps, shampoos and detergent that contain less chemicals.
• Ensure fuel tanks are secured safely and marked with its fuel type.
• Bring oil absorbent materials for small spillages and remove oil from bilges and dispose of it properly at approved waste facilities on land.

If you suspect or see any pollution incidents taking place whilst out on Lough Erne, you can report this by calling the NIEA 24/7 Pollution Hotline number on 0800 807060.

NI Water’s Killyhevlin water treatment works provides clean and great tasting water to around 85,000 people. Lough Erne is the source of this drinking water and by working together, we can all help lessen our impact on water quality and preserve this fabulous resource that we are all so fortunate to be able to use and enjoy!

ENDS

All media enquiries to NI Water press office at press.office@niwater.com