River quality 'getting better'

The scheme aims to further protect Cumbria's rivers

Farmers and agricultural landowners are helping to improve the quality of rivers in Cumbria.

A fencing scheme to prevent agricultural waste seeping into waterways is being adopted by a growing number of farmers in the county.

Earlier this month, the Environment Agency singled out the River Eden for action against pollution from agriculture

But figures released on Monday by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) - shows water quality has significantly improved during the last decade.

In the North West region as a whole 91% of rivers are of good or fair chemical quality - a 21% increase since 1990.

Farm project

Defra said several of their Countryside Stewardship Scheme agreements have played a part in improving the quality of Cumbria rivers.

Environment Minister Elliot Morley said: "Substantial improvements have been made in river quality in Cumbria in recent years, but we need to step up our efforts in tackling the more challenging factors that impact on water quality.

"For instance, more needs to be done to curtail agricultural and urban diffuse pollution (pollution from multiple sources) and we are developing additional mechanisms to address this."

Countryside Stewardship agreements that have benefited the region include a project at a farm near Caldbeck.

Farmers David and Ann Noble, of Burblethwaite, have completed a Riparian Fencing Project in partnership with The Eden Rivers Trust.

Mr Morley said: "Countryside Stewardship Scheme agreements such as these make an important contribution towards improving the quality of our local rivers."

The Nobles' project has been so successful that a neighbouring farmer is setting up a similar project to extend the length of the river being fenced.