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Save water this summer

3rd Aug 2006

As the good weather continues, boaters are being asked to help to conserve water this summer by following a simple 7 step guide.

1. Share the experience
Share locks wherever possible

2. Shut up...
Please shut all paddles and gates to conserve water

3. Spot leakages
Report leakages or damage to paddles and weirs to the local waterway office

4. Start ‘lock wheeling’ through lock flights*
Prevent water going to waste over weirs by making sure that water goes straight into the lock below instead of down the weir

5. Spot boats ahead
If the lock is against you and there is a boat in sight please allow them through first

6. Stealing doesn’t help
Please don’t empty or fill a lock when it is already set for an approaching boat

7. Simply listen
Please follow advice from lock keepers and other British Waterways staff.

* What is lock wheeling?

This prevents water from going to waste over weirs by only drawing one lock full of water from the top pound when going up or down a lock flight.

Going downhill: Open the top paddles on the lock below then raise the bottom paddles in your lock
Going uphill: Open the top paddles of your lock then raise the bottom paddles of the lock above

Advice for the River Thames

The Environment Agency has issued the following advice for summer boating on the Thames:

1. Be patient and follow the advice of lock keepers who will be working hard to keep water in the river and boats moving.

2. Slow down. The 8km/h speed limit is especially important for residential boats and banks which are usually under water.

3. Moor alongside other boats to make better use of public moorings.

4. Don't pollute. Give particular attention to how you deal with waste, leaks and spills and ensure that your sea cock/toilet is sealed, if you have one. The impact of pollution worsens when there is a shortage of water to move it along.

Last updated: 22/10/2008