What's being done?

The council investigates poor water quality at problem sites within the region. This includes identifying the source(s) of contamination, sanitary surveys at sites where there is human contamination, follow-up sampling at coastal sites with non-compliant results, and additional monitoring after rainfall to determine when sites are ‘safe' for swimming again.

Where these actions show the permanent source of contamination is natural (i.e. from birds), the sites will be removed from the programme and permanent signs erected. Also, if sites are always ‘safe' for swimming, they too may be removed from the programme so other sites can be monitored.

A total of 17 sites have now been investigated. Source tracking to isolate the sources of contamination at these sites has shown that 14 are intermittently contaminated by wildfowl, e.g. ducks and/or gulls. Ten sites are contaminated by ruminant (herbivore) faecal material; five sites with dog faecal material and two sites by a human source of pollution.

Where the source of faecal contamination is natural (i.e. from birds), little can be done to correct the problem and permanent signage is developed. In areas where the source of contamination is non-avian, regional council staff work with landowners to implement land management options and ultimately reduce contamination. Further monitoring including sanitary surveys will continue in 2011-2012.

In 2007 and again in 2011, all sites with sufficient data were given a Suitability for Recreation Grade (SFRG) which was calculated by reviewing both water quality data, and potential and actual sources of contamination available for a site. This grade shows how suitable a site is for swimming.

SFRG grading for coastal and freshwater sites in 2010-2011.

For more information, or a breakdown of the past bathing water quality results go to: www.nrc.govt.co.nz/swimming

Ocean Beach Stream.