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The Environment Agency (the 'Agency') works to protect and improve the environment in England and Wales through the integrated management of air, land and water. This involves regulating industry, reducing pollution and waste, protecting wildlife habitats, providing defence from flooding, managing water resources and promoting water-based recreation.

The Agency's work contributes to the Government's sustainable development strategy and is aimed at improving the quality of life for present and future generations.

Some of the activities undertaken by the Agency in the vicinity of Poole Harbour include:

* Monitoring of water quality in the Harbour to assess compliance with a number of European Directives including the Shellfish Waters and the Bathing Waters Directives;
* Partner in the construction of the Poole Town Quay flood alleviation scheme;
* Monitoring river flow in the River Frome and River Piddle, both of which flow into the Harbour; and
* Enforcing the four-knot speed limit along the River Frome downstream of Wareham.

To find out if your home or business is in the floodplain and, if it is, how to protect your family and property, ring the Agency's Floodline 0845 988 1188 or log on to  http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk.

If you see anybody fly-tipping or polluting land or water, ring the Agency's free, 24-hour emergency hotline 0800 80 70 60.

For general enquiries, ring 0845 9 333 111 this will connect you directly to your local Agency office.

The local office for Poole Harbour is the South Wessex Area Office in Blandford.

Rivers House
Sunrise Business Park
Higher Shaftesbury Road
Blandford Forum
Dorset DT11 8ST

If you want to know more about the Agency or just wish to browse through a host of environmental information visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk.