INCREASING volumes of foam have become highly noticeable on the River Cleddau in recent days, sparking worries about potential pollution. Mr. Bevis Musk, a concerned citizen, reached out to Ms. Clare Pillman, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales (NRW), and Prof. Steve Ormerod to bring their attention to the matter.

In his email dated 19th June 2023, Mr. Musk expressed his belief that the foam may have an organic origin, evident from its thick and three-dimensional appearance. The foam has a creamy white colour with a distinct brown shade, reminiscent of foams derived from algal blooms. Mr. Musk suggested that the warmer weather and rising water temperatures are likely contributing factors.

Despite the diligent efforts of NRW’s Lloyd Ayris, the definitive chemical composition and source of the anionic detergent foam remain unknown. Mr. Musk highlighted that NRW has been aware of this pollution since November 2022, leaving ample time for analysis over the past seven months. To distinguish between the new foam and the anionic detergent foam, Mr. Musk recommended determining the relative chemical constituents of both types of foam.

In a gesture of assistance, Mr. Musk volunteered to oversee the necessary analyses at no cost, provided NRW provides the required resources to support Mr. Ayris.

In addition to the foam pollution, Mr. Musk shared new evidence gathered from conversations with local anglers. They reported unusually low fish catches, and in some cases, no catches at all. While acknowledging that this evidence may be considered anecdotal, Mr. Musk emphasised that the comments were unsolicited and coincided with his own observations of a lack of wading birds feeding on exposed mud during low tides. These observations suggest a potentially significant impact on delicate marine habitats and the associated food chains.

Expressing dissatisfaction with what he perceives as NRW’s inefficient allocation of resources, Mr. Musk called upon the organisation to fulfil its duty of protecting natural resources. He specifically addressed Ms. Pillman, reminding her that he has written directly to her as the CEO, and expressed the expectation of receiving a response from her.

Photographs taken on 17th and 18th June clearly show the foam in the form of distinct “rafts,” displaying a cream and brown colouration. This differs from the previously observed sparkling white, almost two-dimensional foam.

NRW is currently conducting investigations into the foam pollution, with laboratory results from Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) analysis expected to be available next week. Additional sampling for detergent in the Havens saline environment is scheduled for August, and NRW has indicated their willingness to arrange a meeting with Mr. Musk to discuss the findings in person.

The foam pollution on the River Cleddau and its potential environmental impact continue to raise concerns, as NRW strives to identify the source and implement appropriate measures to safeguard the river’s ecosystem.