Foam spotted on the River Wye near Monmouth is natural algae & fungi die-off, not pollution, says Natural Resources Wales.
The video showed brown and white foam on the river. Angela said the scene had a bad smell and claimed it was untreated sewage. She called it “absolutely diabolical.”
She was upset to see it in the Wye and described the horrible stench. This has been happening for years, she stated. She wants regulators to step in and Welsh Water’s bosses should be held accountable.
The bill payer shouldn’t suffer, she argued. Welsh Water released sewage for over 916,000 hours in 2023. They dumped it into Welsh rivers, lakes, and the sea.
This was a big increase from prior years (68%). They blamed storms and rain. River pollution is now extreme. Groups like River Action UK try to help, and “Save the River Usk” works locally.
NRW stated they found nothing to worry about. They think the foam is just algae and fungi, simply dying off. A Natural Resources Wales person spoke and said they checked the River Wye near Monmouth after foam reports.
Officers did a full inspection. They found no signs of pollution there and believe the foam is natural. It’s likely algae plus fungi.
Fungi are vital in streams. They break down leaves into detritus, which invertebrates need for food. This process helps the small creatures. The fungi grow on decaying leaves and twigs.
People commonly see them in autumn and winter. Now the fast river flow causes foam. The foam appears below the Iron Bridge and the current traps it behind a pier. This makes the foam look bigger.
Though alarming, NRW said it is natural. It isn’t pollution, they confirmed. They thanked people for reporting. Report pollution 24/7 by calling 0300 065 3000. They want to know if you see something, and they are available to help.