How Does Canoeing Affect The Water Quality?

Canoeing is an eco-friendly activity that does not cause much damage to water quality, with minimal erosion and no use of oil. The use of paddles instead of motors keeps the water clear from pollution, making it a very environment-friendly activity. However, there are risks of water pollution when kayaking, such as spilling drinks or fuel from motorized kayaks into the water, which can make the water dirty and unsafe for plants.

Kayaks have a limited footprint, making them a more sustainable option for exploring. Participants in canoe journeys have agreed to equip their canoes with water quality monitoring instruments to measure sea surface temperature, salinity, and pH. Impacts may include organic waste increasing bacterial levels in the water, soaps and antiseptics killing essential micro-organisms and increasing phosphorous, causing algal blooms, and improperly disposed of feces, causing disease and polluting the water.

Kayaking can connect us with wildlife, such as water birds and fish. However, water quality is also impacted by farming techniques where human waste is used as fertiliser. British Canoeing aims to address these issues by providing eco-friendly practices and reducing air pollution.

However, there is a risk of infection caused by microorganisms in the natural environment. Low flows mean there is less water to dilute effluent run off from surrounding land and sewage treatment works. It is important to be aware of lower levels of water and be aware of the connections between canoeing and nearby land, which can be the source of many pollutants.

In conclusion, canoeing has both positive and negative effects on water quality, but it is crucial to consider the potential risks and benefits of each activity.