River water

I have just moved to a property with a brook running alongside. However, the brook begins and runs through old tin mine workings prior to reaching my garden. Neighbours tell me that arsenic and other minerals are present in the water. First, can I safely use the water for my garden? and secondly, does anyone know a cheap method of testing the water?
TIA

 

I don't think privately testing the water would be enough, Maltaron. I think it's too serious for that. I think you need to be in touch with Environmental Health people in your authority to find out what the position is, and even whether your soil is safe, if you are thinking of growing veg.

At the best, it might be ok to water plants with the water, but I definitely wouldn't use it on fruit or veg :eek:

 

Totally with Dendy on this - if your intending to grow veg or you got kids, you need to know that the water is safe.

 

Thanks to all who replied. I found an angling website and they say the upper reaches of River Seaton (thats my brook) is contaminated with copper & possibly allumnium. I would appreciate any further comments

 

You may already know some of this info but try this page: Cornwall Rivers Project: Seaton

As a bye, if there are high concentrations of lead, tin or copper in the water then I'd be straight in there with the gold pan :D

After a happy week at Kildonan!

 

Ask your local water authority to test the water for you. You will probably find they test it anyway.

TTFN

 

Here is the site of the:
DRINKING WATER INSPECTORATE, which should be able to direct you...

http://www.dwi.gov.uk/