Less than 24 hours after new signs were erected at Queen’s Valley reservoir, they have been ripped down and removed, prompting Jersey Water to appeal for their return.
The signage, that was put in place earlier this week, asked the public not to feed wildlife at the reservoir, due to the potentially negative impact it can have on the environment, public health and water quality.
People have been feeding birds and other animals with food that is not suitable for the natural ecosystem and is attracting vermin to the reservoir.
Concerned members of the public had contacted the utility requesting signs to be erected. While the signage was quite playful in nature, the messaging was clear.
Terry Gasnier, Jersey Water’s Facilities Manager commented:
“We are disappointed that the signage has been ripped out and taken, less than 24 hours after we put it up. Before we take further action and contact the Police, we are asking for it to be returned.
While we know visitors have only good intentions when feeding the wildlife, it sadly causes more harm than good. Giving wild birds and animals food that we eat upsets nature’s balance and disrupts their natural feeding habits. Leftover food also attracts increased numbers of rats and other vermin to the reservoir, which poses a contamination risk to water quality and public health. Our priority is to always protect water quality right the way from the reservoir to people’s taps.
We absolutely want people to enjoy the natural beauty of our reservoirs but to do so without interfering with the wildlife, natural environment and water quality.”
Jersey Water is asking the person or people who took the signs to return them as soon as possible to avoid further action being taken. Anyone with information about the missing signs can contact the Customer Services team (01534) 707300.