The effect abstraction has on the environment depends on the amount and timing of the abstraction and the location and amount of water that may be returned after it has been used. Taking too much water from rivers and groundwater may result in lower flows and reduced water levels, which may not support a healthy ecology, affect wildlife and the look of a river, as well as impacting on other water users.
Programme of Measures - Water Quantity and Flow - Abstraction and Flow Regulation - 2015