The broadland code

The Norfolk Broads are a unique wetland area covering 125 miles (200km) of lock free navigable waterways.  The Broads themselves are small shallow lakes and were formed from flooded peat diggings of the medieval period. In recognition of its importance for both wildlife and recreation, the area has been granted the equivalent status of a National Park.  The Broads Authority protects the area for everyone to enjoy and has the responsibility for navigation conservation and recreation.  Please help to conserve the beauty of the Broads by following this simple Broadland Code.

KEEP THE BROADS AND RIVERS CLEAN

Please don’t litter the riverbanks, marinas or moorings. Discarded litter and fishing tackle can entangle and kill wildlife, as well as causing problems for other boaters by getting caught in their propellers.  All our boats have refuse containers.  Please keep rubbish in this way until you are able to dispose of it at proper sites.

Facilities for recycling and waste disposal are available near most public moorings. Broads Authority Tourist Information Centres have details of recycling facilities.

To help reduce river pollution please don’t use detergent excessively and don’t release oil, this pollutes the water badly and kills wildlife.

Help reduce river pollution by using biodegradable or phosphate free washing up liquid and other cleaning products and use only small amounts.  Unlike on land, all waste from boats except sewage, empties straight into the river. Do not put cooking oil down the sink.

Should you need to refuel, take extra care not to spill diesel into the water.  Spills of chemicals, such as diesel cause harm to wildlife and can kill many water creatures.  If you see a discharge of sewage or oil or other pollution incident please contact the Environment Agency free on 0800 807060 or Broads River Control on 01603 756056

PRESERVE REED BEDS

Reeds are very important to the ecological balance of the Broads, as they stop the banks from being eroded and provide food and shelter for wildlife.  Do not moor your boat to the reeds or push the bows into them, you might disturb wildlife.  If you want to stop, drop your mud weight away from the reeds.  Many of the Broads navigable waters pass through Nature Reserves, so please keep disturbances to a minimum. 

All land adjoining the water belongs to someone.  Please respect this and avoid trespassing.

KEEP OUT OF SHALLOW WATER

Driving a boat into shallow water and running aground causes damage to the environment.   Keep to the marked channels and remember that running aground can cost you money.

Do not use your horn for any other purpose than the safe manoeuvring of your craft.