Estuary on red alert again

• Published date: 05 April 2024
• Publication title: Oamaru Mail

It is the third time since the beginning of December the estuary has been considered unsuitable for swimming. Caution has been advised on a further five occasions

Samples are collected weekly.

Otago Regional Council water quality scientist Helen Trotter said the estuary had been closed for extended periods this summer due to weather conditions and ongoing low river flows.

The water was flushed out less as a result, which elevated bacteria levels.

Analysis of the bacteria had so far indicated it was avian in origin.

The water...