Introduction

The River Avon flows from east to west through Bristol and the spectacular Avon Gorge to the Severn Estuary. Within the city boundary it is fed by many smaller tributaries such as the River Trym, River Frome, Malago, Colliter's Brook and Brislington Brook. Bristol City Council's Environmnent Team monitors the quality of these waterways.

The effects of a typical urban environment is reflected in the general character of the local watercourses; low flows and low oxygen content, siltation, habitat degradation, intermittent sewage contamination, dumped litter and the legacy of industrial activity. However there are still many stretches that are very beautiful and a valuable amenity for the public. The larger, more 'natural', rivers such as the River Frome, River Avon and River Trym are most likely to achieve good water quality status but it is unrealistic to expect some of the smaller watercourses to achieve these standards.

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