Source
It is essential to protecting OUR raw water at its source to ensure clean, safe water for all of our members. Our local streams, drains and rivers are the starting point of a natural water supply system, and any contamination here can affect the entire water distribution network. To protect it, measures such as preserving natural vegetation, preventing deforestation, and controlling urban or industrial development near the source are crucial.
Establishing buffer zones around the source can help limit human activity and pollution. Additionally, regular monitoring for pollutants, enforcing strict waste disposal regulations, and educating local populations on the importance of water conservation and hygiene can further safeguard the water. This proactive approach not only protects water quality but also ensures the sustainability of the source for future generations.
Framers in the Stranooden GWS have been exceptionally positive, allowing buffer Zones in our Catchment area
The Pathway of Our Water
Protecting the path of water from its source to the reservoir involves more than just physical barriers like fences. It requires comprehensive management of land use, water quality, and ecosystem health. Bank revetment plays a crucial role in stabilizing shorelines, preventing erosion, and reducing sedimentation that can degrade water quality. Maintaining natural vegetation, controlling pollution, and preventing industrial or agricultural runoff are key strategies. Monitoring water flow, ensuring proper waste disposal, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts are equally vital.
A holistic approach, including education, regulation, and sustainable practices, ensures long-term protection, preserving water quality and availability. Fences alone cannot address the complex environmental and human factors that influence water health throughout its journey.
What is Natural Protection?
Native plants around a lake help stabilize soil, reduce erosion, filter pollutants, and maintain biodiversity. They support local wildlife, regulate water temperature, and preserve ecosystem balance, ensuring better water quality.
Conifers can be dangerous to drinking water sources because their needles acidify the soil, potentially leaching harmful substances into the water. Additionally, they can reduce biodiversity and disrupt local ecosystems.
Instead of Conifers here are some key native tree species:
Oak (Sessile & Pedunculate) Majestic, long-living trees that support diverse wildlife.
Ash A common tree in hedgerows, known for its strong wood.
Birch (Silver & Downy) Light-barked trees that thrive in wetlands and uplands.
Alder Grows near rivers and helps prevent soil erosion.
Willow (Common & Grey) Found near water, supporting birds and insects.
Rowan (Mountain Ash) Small, hardy tree with red berries, linked to folklore.
Hazel Produces edible nuts and is used in traditional crafts.
Yew A slow-growing, long-living tree, often found in ancient woodlands and churchyards.
Some Native Bushes & Shrubs for edging rivers and streams
Hawthorn Also called the "fairy tree," common in hedgerows, with white flowers and red berries.
Blackthorn Produces sloe berries, used in making sloe gin.
Guelder Rose A deciduous shrub with white flowers and red berries.
Spindle Bright pink fruits and orange seeds make it striking in autumn.
Elder Produces fragrant white flowers and dark berries, used in food and drink.
Broom A yellow-flowering shrub found in sandy soils.
Gorse (Furze/Whin) A spiky, yellow-flowered bush common in the Irish landscape.
Native trees and bushes, at waters edge, play essential roles in supporting Ireland’s biodiversity, providing food and shelter for birds, insects and mammals. BUT, most importantly, protecting our water source
Protecting your drinking water
Protecting your drinking water at its source to ensure a high-quality drinking water supply. It is widely recognised that protecting drinking water at it's source is the No.1 method of ensuring that a high quality is achieved. The National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) is actively involved in promoting source protection amongst the group water sector in Ireland. Presently Phase II of the new “Drinking Water Source Protection Pilot Project” is underway. This pilot will involve source protection planning for both groundwater and surface water sourced Group Water Schemes (GWSs).
Stranooden GWS was been selected as the pilot site for the surface water aspect of the project. Ross Mac Donald is the current Source Protection Officer appointed by Stranooden GWS to oversee the project. His Focus was:
- Maintaining a Source Protection Plan
- Implementing Phase 3 of The pilot project.
The scheme abstracts its water from White Lough (also known as Baird Shore), where it’s then pumped to its water treatment plant in Corcaghan. Eight groundwater supplied GWSs, located in Co. Roscommon and Co. Westmeath have also been included in this national initiative, with this aspect of the work being conducted by Tobin Consulting Engineers, the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and The NFGWS.
