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Everything You Need
From regulatory guidance to interactive tools, RealmCup covers every aspect of water abstraction in England and Wales.
Community Feed
Share insights, ask questions, and discuss water abstraction with professionals across England and Wales.
Knowledge Base
Comprehensive guides on surface water, groundwater, boreholes, and rainwater harvesting techniques.
Regulations Guide
Environment Agency rules, the 20m³/day threshold, exemptions, and the Water Resources Act 1991.
Code of Conduct
Best practices for responsible abstraction, environmental compliance, and community standards.
Abstraction Map
Interactive map of Environment Agency licensed abstraction points across England and Wales.
Land Registry Lookup
Search HM Land Registry for land and property water points by location or title number.
Featured Articles
View allGroundwater Abstraction: Boreholes and Wells
Everything you need to know about abstracting groundwater from boreholes and wells in England and Wales, from site investigation to pump testing and long-term management.
10 min read
Do You Need an Abstraction Licence? The 20m³/Day Rule Explained
A clear explanation of when you need an Environment Agency abstraction licence in England and Wales, focusing on the critical 20 cubic metre per day threshold and its exceptions.
6 min read
Surface Water Abstraction: Methods and Best Practices
A comprehensive guide to abstracting water from rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs in England and Wales, covering intake design, screening, and seasonal considerations.
8 min read
Community Feed
View allAbstracting More Than 20m³/Day?
Under the Water Resources Act 1991, any abstraction exceeding 20 cubic metres (20,000 litres) per day from a surface water or groundwater source in England requires a licence from the Environment Agency. In Wales, Natural Resources Wales administers the licensing system.
Join the RealmCup Community
Connect with water abstraction professionals, share your expertise, and stay informed on the latest regulatory developments.