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Reducing river nutrients

Wild swimming

Open water swimming, also referred to as wild swimming, is increasingly popular but poses many risks which are not always visible.

We encourage you to be mindful of the dangers of strong currents and hidden underwater objects that could cause serious injury, especially if jumping in from height.

Rivers and canals can also carry infections. Anyone can become unwell from swimming in any open water as there will always be micro-organisms like Cryptosporidium and Giardia present. The risk of becoming ill depends on various factors:

  • Children and novice swimmers are more likely to swallow water accidentally
  • Those with an impaired immune system are more susceptible to infection
  • Those swimming in rivers and estuaries are more likely to become unwell
  • Heavy rainfall can wash harmful bacteria from agricultural land, urban areas and sewage to rivers, seas and bathing waters and affect water quality

Keep safe

If you decide to go wild swimming follow these top tips to keep safe.

If you see someone in trouble in the water dial 999 or 112. Remember there are no lifeguards when wild swimming, and there might not be a phone signal.

If you become unwell after wild swimming, call 111 or visit the NHS website to seek medical help.

The Environment Agency is responsible for monitoring river water quality, controlling discharges into watercourses and for dealing with pollution incidents. To report suspected water pollution call the Environment Agency incident hotline on 0800 807060 (24 hour service) or complete their environmental incident form.

Take part in 'Poo-Sticks' river swimming study

The European Centre for Environment and Human Health along with the University of Exeter are recruiting participants to take part in a new study. The 'Poo-Sticks' river swimming study is looking to find out how wild swimmers might acquire antibiotic-resistant bacteria, also known as 'superbugs', in their gut microbiomes. If you are a wild swimmer, find out more about the study and how to take part.

Further information on wild swimming