Water sampling starts as summer approaches
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The Shire of Augusta Margaret River this month started its annual recreational water sampling program to coincide with the increase in activity at popular swimming spots as summer approaches. The sampling program, conducted as part of a state-wide Department of Health initiative, targets 10 local water recreation spots including:
Flinders Bay near Redman Brook Hardy Inlet near Turner Caravan Park Hardy Inlet near stormwater drains Margaret River at the rivermouth Margaret River at the canoe landing Margaret River at the Rendall Close Weir Margaret River at Barrett Weir Gracetown beach near the mouth of the creek Gnarabup beach near the boat ramp Blackwood River near Alexandra Bridge campsiteShire Environmental Health Officer Chris McAtee said water samples collected from these sites are checked for levels of bacteria including Enterococci and Escherichia coli. “Officers take between five and 13 water samples per site over the sampling period, which runs from November to April each year,” she said. “If bacterial levels exceed the thresholds that are considered safe for swimming, will we place warning signs at the site to notify the public of the risk.” Ms McAtee said water quality could vary between pockets of water and between sampling times so it was still important for swimmers to self-assess the risks before jumping in. “The Department of Health recommends against swimming for up to three days after heavy rainfall,” she said. “Water users are encouraged to steer clear of water that is warm, stagnant, slow moving, or near storm water drains. “If the water looks discoloured, murky, or is smelly, it’s best to give it a miss. “There are plenty of beautiful, easily accessible swimming spots around the region that are safe for swimming, so choose any of these instead.” For more information refer to https://ww2.health.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Bacterial-water-quality or https://www.amrshire.wa.gov.au/services/environmental-health/water-quality