Experts attempt to trace sources of Kerry river pollution

Experts are finding it difficult to trace sources of pollution in a well-known salmon and trout angling river in Co Kerry.

Water quality in the River Maine, downstream of Castleisland, is of “unacceptable status’’ as far as water framework directive standards are concerned, according to Kerry County Council.

Executive chemist David Lenihan said the limestone nature of the area made it extremely difficult to trace the pollution sources. He said the river, which is not used as a drinking water source, is monitored monthly at four locations and results from all four showed the water to be “less than good quality”, particularly for nutrients and ammonia.