Blackwater (Kilmacow) — water body quality
near Ferrybank, Kilkenny
Blackwater (Kilmacow) is a river in Kilkenny, near Ferrybank, extending 59.5 km.
Official classification
Moderate
Assessed 2026
Moderate is the first Water Framework Directive class that falls short of the Directive’s objective: the biological communities here differ moderately from those expected in a near-natural water body of this type, so a programme of measures applies.
| Stretch | Status |
|---|---|
| Blackwater (Kilmacow) | Moderate |
| Blackwater (Kilmacow) | Moderate |
| Blackwater (Kilmacow) | Good |
| Blackwater (Kilmacow) | Moderate |
| Blackwater (Kilmacow) | Good |
Overall status reflects the worst stretch (precautionary).
This water body
- Type
- River
- Length
- 59.5 km
- County
- Kilkenny
- Location
- 52.3458, -7.1610
Others in Kilkenny
This page shows water-quality information, not swim-safety advice. For today's conditions and swim-safety guidance, check Water Safety Ireland.