Contamination of the George River (2)

Alison Bleaney

Can residents of St Helens and the other users of the George River water feel secure that 2,4-D was only found on the 10th and 11th of February when testing ceased on the 13th of February?

THE article “Water worries continue” in the East Coast News of 4/4/2007 is disconcerting.

2,4-D, a constituent of Agent Orange, is permitted to be used in Tasmania at this time of the year only by permit. Can we assume that no permits have been given? Is this why the source of the 2,4-D contamination has not been reported? Pesticide Action Network Pesticides Database states that pregnant women should avoid exposure to this chemical. The symptoms of 2,4-D exposure are given as below:

irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tracts

burning sensation in sinuses and chest and coughing

headache

nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea

confusion

kidney failure

increasing heart rate

metabolic acidosis.

2,4-D is classified as a possible carcinogen to humans, moderately toxic, an endocrine disruptor and potential groundwater contaminant.

The source of the MCPA has also not been disclosed.

Can residents of St Helens and the other users of the George River water feel secure that 2,4-D was only found on the 10th and 11th of February when testing ceased on the 13th of February?

MCP was present from the 10th to the 13th of February and was still present when testing ceased. The water is tested by grab samples four times a year and during some days of significant rain events.

Water users and Break O’Day Council (BODC) have no idea of total pesticide usage in the George River catchment despite BODC being the legally responsible water body. This type of testing cannot ensure that the St Helen’s drinking water is safe and clean, and free from pesticides and chemicals.

This state of affairs cannot be considered to be acceptable.

Dr Alison Bleaney, MBChB, FACRRM

Earlier: Contamination of the George River