Home / Environment / Lincoln Waterways Choked by Weed, Boaters Protest
Lincoln Waterways Choked by Weed, Boaters Protest
22 Aug
Summary
- Boaters protested overgrown Foss Dyke and River Witham waterways.
- Boaters cite significant fees paid to Canal & River Trust.
- Trust attributes weed growth to warmer climate and nutrient-rich water.
Boaters and anglers in Lincoln recently voiced their strong objections regarding the deteriorating condition of two key local waterways. The Foss Dyke and the River Witham have become severely choked with weed and are overgrown, prompting a protest organised by the Burton Waters Boat Club at Brayford Pool.
Members of the boat club highlighted that despite paying substantial licence fees to the Canal & River Trust, they observe minimal maintenance efforts. Commodore Lee Bonham noted a significant increase in weed over the past three to four years, with this summer being particularly problematic, describing up to a meter and a half of weed growth.
The Canal & River Trust acknowledged the frustration caused by weed growth, citing a warming climate and nutrient-rich water as ideal conditions for fast-growing vegetation. The trust stated it is collaborating with various stakeholders, including environmental trusts and local authorities, to develop a comprehensive action plan and secure funding for solutions.
Boaters are also calling for essential dredging to maintain navigability and for vegetation on the banks to be regularly cut back. The trust affirmed its commitment to working with river users to ensure the waterways are optimal for both people and wildlife.
