The River Test runs through the beautiful village of Chilbolton and is part of the SSSI (Site of Specific Scientific Interest). The river is more than just a body of water; it's a thriving ecosystem that supports an array of wildlife including trout, Atlantic salmon, voles, owls and otters. However, this vibrant habitat is under threat due to Southern Water's practices.

Due to high water levels, Southern Water is now pumping waste into the river at Chilbolton. This not only disrupts the natural balance but also poses serious threats to the diverse species that call this river home. The impact on local biodiversity could be devastating if these practices continue unchecked. 

Nitrates and Phosphates are directly responsible to the degradation of chalkstream habitat and according to a report by The Environment Agency (2019), waste disposal in rivers can lead to eutrophication - an excess of nutrients causing dense plant growth and death of animal life from lack of oxygen. It can also introduce harmful substances which can bioaccumulate up the food chain, affecting all levels of life from tiny insects to larger mammals like otters.

We cannot stand by while our local environment is being damaged in such a way. We urge Southern Water to cease their waste disposal into the River Test immediately and seek alternative methods for handling their waste that do not harm our ecosystems or endanger wildlife.

Please sign this petition today and help us protect our precious River Test for future generations.