What is causing the pollution in the River Wye?

The River Wye is primarily polluted by phosphate-rich manure from industrial chicken farms and by discharges of treated and untreated sewage.

What impact has pollution had on the River Wye's salmon?

Pollution has caused pervasive algae blooms that reduce oxygen levels, leading to a dramatic decline in the River Wye's once teeming salmon population.

Who is involved in the legal action over the River Wye's pollution?

A major legal claim has been brought against Avara Foods, a large poultry group, and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, which oversees sewage in the region.

Home / Environment / Chicken Farms Choke Britain's Most Beautiful River

Chicken Farms Choke Britain's Most Beautiful River

29 Jan

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Summary

Industrial chicken farms release phosphate-rich manure into the River Wye.
Pollution has led to a dramatic decline in salmon populations.
A major lawsuit targets poultry firms and water companies for river pollution.

Chicken Farms Choke Britain's Most Beautiful River

Once a symbol of Britain's natural beauty, the River Wye has suffered a severe environmental decline. Industrial chicken farms along its banks are a primary source of pollution, with their phosphate-rich manure significantly impacting water quality. This has led to a drastic reduction in the river's oxygen levels and a near-disappearance of its once-abundant salmon population. The situation worsened in 2023 when Natural England downgraded the river's status to 'unfavourable declining'.

In response, a historic legal action was initiated in October 2025 against Avara Foods, a major poultry producer, and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water. This lawsuit, filed on behalf of over 4,000 local residents, alleges their role in polluting the Wye and its sister rivers. Campaigners hope this legal challenge will compel the responsible parties to undertake river clean-up efforts.