KNYSNA NEWS - The latest results on water quality in the Knysna Estuary have again raised issues about continued pollution.
The estuary water quality update on 13 August showed that the Salt River recreation point was non-compliant, with a whopping 850 000 E. coli/100ml.
Recreation points that were com-pliant include: Belvidere 5/100m; Bollard Bay 89/100ml; Costa Sarda 100/100ml; Crabs Creek 5/100ml; Green Mole 81/100ml; Lake Brenton 22/100ml; and the Heads 12/100ml. In addition, six culverts were tested, of which five were found to be non-compliant.
They were Bongani 19 700/100ml; KADA 500 000/100ml; Long Street 60 000/100ml; and Queen Street and train station 6 600/100ml.
The only culvert that was compliant was Bigal 7/100ml.
Concerns
A spokesperson for the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) confirmed the results are correct.
The spokesperson said serious concerns regarding the current non-compliant water status will always be communicated to the Knysna Municipality, that is responsible for addressing the situation.
A side angle of the culvert at the rail station. This picture was taken recently.
GRDM health services (MHS) monitor the water quality of the Knysna Estuary on a monthly basis at several sampling points as part of their legislative mandate for water quality monitoring.
The culvert at the rail station. Any sewage that enters the storm water along Waterfront Drive, Hedge Street and the west side of Gordon Street, flows into the estuary here. This picture was taken recently. Photos: Supplied
The results of the tests are communicated to the GRDM by an accredited laboratory (South African National Accreditation System certified testing facility), that analyses water samples taken at identified points by environmental health practitioners.
Land-based pollution entering an estuary falls under the responsibility of the Knysna Municipality to monitor and control.
Role players
The GRDM has been in discussion with the Knysna Municipality on the issue. The results are communicated to the relevant role players within the municipality every month and discussed at the GRDM Community Services Section 80 meeting, under the leadership of Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, portfolio chairperson for community services.
The same process/protocol is in place for any issue found in other municipal areas within the Garden Route.
Knysna-Plett Herald visited the culvert at the Knysna Waterfront on Tuesday 9 September, but was unable to take a photo as it was submerged due to the spring tide.
Read previous articles:
Alarm over sewage crisis... | Knysna-Plett Herald
Series of sewage leaks in Knysna | Knysna-Plett Herald
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