26 March 2014

Island Bay residents asked to help

Residents of Island Bay and surrounding areas are being asked to help locate the source of recurring discharge coming from the stormwater outfall at the end of the concrete pier on Island Bay Beach.

Residents have noted the discharge several times over the past year. An alert resident took this photograph on 28 February which shows distinct orange discharge coming from the outfall and flowing into the Marine reserve.

Greater Wellington Regional Council, Manager Environmental Regulation Department, Alistair Cross says it is difficult to trace the source of the contamination due to the size of the stormwater catchment for this outlet.

“To trace the contamination back would require us to follow a maze of connecting drains in the vain hope that we reach the contamination source before it ceases. In this case it appears that someone has poured paint into the system and I doubt that we would ever be able to locate the source.”

“We have made a significant effort to make sure people understand that paints, solvents, chemicals and wash water should never go down private stormwater drains or roadside gutters. These drains often flow directly into streams and the sea with little or no treatment.”

“It is disappointing to see this sort of thing still happening, and we appreciate the support we get from residents who help pass the message on, stay vigilant and keep us informed,” Mr Cross says.

If you see any waste going into the gutter, call the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s 24-hour Environment Hotline as soon as you can: 0800 496 734.

ENDS

© Scoop Media