\n New Forest Friends of the Earth, a community-led group monitoring river health, says the Dane Stream remains \u201cdangerously contaminated\u201d with E. coli despite action to fix a burst pipe earlier this month.\n<\/p>\n
\n The pollution was traced to a rising main at Shorefield Road pumping station, which burst on May 1.\n<\/p>\n
\n The group said it has since reported raw sewage in the water, a strong smell and dead fish along affected stretches.\n<\/p>\n
\n Gill Hickman, from the group, said levels remain far above what is considered safe.\n<\/p>\n
\n She said: \u201cAt its peak it was extremely high. It\u2019s now around 20,000, but anything above 900 is classed as dangerous.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n New Forest Water Watch volunteer Sarah Rix with Gill Hicman (Image: Submitted)\n<\/p>\n
\n Although the leak has been sealed and levels have fallen, she warned that the water is still unsafe.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cPeople might think because it looks clear that it\u2019s fine, but it definitely isn\u2019t. Water can look clean as snow and still be contaminated,\u201d added Gill.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cIt makes me very angry indeed \u2013 we\u2019re all very angry. Water companies need to be held to account.”\n<\/p>\n
\n Southern Water said it took action as soon as the fault was reported.\n<\/p>\n
\n A spokesperson said: \u201cFollowing a burst main at our Shorefield Road pumping station affecting downstream water quality in the Dane Stream, we switched off the pumping station and are using tankers to carry flows for treatment while we arrange a repair.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cIndependent environmental sampling teams are carrying out weekly sampling of the watercourse and the results are being shared with the Environment Agency.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n The company added that the pumping station remains turned off while repairs are arranged. Southern Water said work has been delayed due to environmental constraints at the site.\n<\/p>\n
\n Despite these measures, campaigners warn the stream remains a risk to both public health and wildlife.\n<\/p>\n
\n The group has also launched a fundraiser to pay for testing kits and equipment so volunteers can continue regular monitoring across the New Forest.\n<\/p>\n
\n Residents are being urged to avoid contact with the water, particularly children and dogs, due to the risk of illness and the impact on wildlife.\n<\/p>\n
\n Gill added: \u201cWe will keep testing and keep reporting, because if it\u2019s not measured, it\u2019s ignored.\u201d\n<\/p>\n