Green and pleasant lawns

[Alan ashore]

OK, not really a boating issue, but I'd like to hear from any Thames riparian owners who draw water directly from the river for garden irrigation. What process did you have to go through with EA and/or your Local Authority?

This is something we have thought about on and off over the years but the "local mythology" has always been that it's too difficult to get permission, and I've never seriously researched it.

Cheers,
A.

 

[Margot]

OK, not really a boating issue, but I'd like to hear from any Thames riparian owners who draw water directly from the river for garden irrigation. What process did you have to go through with EA and/or your Local Authority?

This is something we have thought about on and off over the years but the "local mythology" has always been that it's too difficult to get permission, and I've never seriously researched it.

Cheers,
A.

I don't live next to the river, alas, but I have it in my head that if you do, you can draw a fair amount of water per day without needing a licence. But I can't remember why I know/think that! If you call the EA on 08708 506 506, they'll be able to clarify the situation, surely?

 

[CJL]

If you abstract more than 20m3 (20,000ltrs) you need an abstraction licence from the EA. Below that I think you are fine but there may be permission issues if you are not the riparian owner.

CJL

 

[mikemanor]

You may find this link useful. It points to an article written by Mole Valley District Council but includes a section on the rights of riparian owners including the paragraph:

"You can abstract a maximum of 20 cubic metres per day of water for the domestic purposes of your own household or for agricultural use, excluding spray irrigation, from a watercourse at a point which directly adjoins your land without the need for a licence. Most other types of abstraction will require a licence from the Environment Agency. A separate guide for potential abstractors is available on request."

http://www.molevalley.gov.uk/media/pdf/k/s/Land_Drainage_(2).pdf

 

[Alan ashore]

Thanks Mike. Naturally spray irrigation is precisely what I have in mind! Guidance visible on various LA sites varies, as you might expect, and I'm still keen to hear from anyone who is actually doing it (other than clandestinely, of course...), before I approach the EA myself.

Cheers,
A.

 

[Dave_Seager]

I water my garden using water pumped from the river. I contacted the EA when I started about 20 years ago and was told that I did not need a licence unless I was extracting huge amounts.

I use a basic electric pump on a time switch. This supplies the greenhouse, vegetables, soft fruit and various planters. I use a filter but avoid devices with small jets as they will be blocked too easily.