Environment Protection Authority [EPA] Victoria have found mud and water samples across flood affected areas in the Maribyrnong River showed comparatively low levels of contamination.
EPA Victoria chief environmental scientist Professor Mark Patrick Taylor said a team of EPA scientists have been conducting sample collections along the river and going door to door to collect soil samples using a number of methods, including X-ray fluorescence [XRF].
“Preliminary data on the sediment samples from public open space came back this afternoon (Friday, October 21), showing that none of the contaminants of concern, hydrocarbons, PFAS, trace elements or polyaromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], were at high enough levels to cause any concerns about human health,” he said.
“The levels of pathogens, E.coli and enterococci are below the trigger point where we would have for any health concerns for recreational activities involving contact with the water.”
EPA scientists had expected low levels because the high level of flood water coming in from clean catchments upstream is diluting any contaminants.
Professor Taylor said the EPA would continue to provide updates, but encouraged residents in flood-affected areas to remain careful around flood waters.
“The usual rule of steering clear of flood waters still applies because they can be unpredictable, but these early signs are encouraging,” he said.
“We anticipate the samples from people’s gardens will be similar to the samples we took from public open space.
“I don’t expect the results to be very different, but we will provide updates as we go and a summary of what we found in the water and the soil for residents in the area.”
EPA has also re-activated its Beach Report and Yarra Watch service ahead of summer, providing updates on water quality to help people make plans around the water.
If you or a loved one need support, phone Emergency Recovery Victoria on 1800 560 760.
Details: www.epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/flood-impacted-rivers or 1300 372 842 and select option 8
