An innovative way of utilising a common fish tank water quality test kit to tackle stormwater pollution at Mornington Beach has been recognised at this year’s Stormwater Victoria Awards.
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) worked with Mornington Peninsula Council, Melbourne Water and Melbourne University’s Centre for Aquatic Pollution Investigation and Management (CAPIM) on the project to improve water quality at Mornington Beach.
EPA Recreational Water Quality Program Co-ordinator Darren Cottam said the test was part of the project ‘Hitting the Hot Spots – a strategic approach to point source pollution management on the Peninsula’, which received two high commendations in the awards.
“The project was recognised for its ability to rapidly identify and trace pollution sources in stormwater drains and waterways,” Mr Cottam said.
“The test itself looks a small box, which is placed in the stormwater drain for a period of time, and a colour scale indicates how much ammonia is in the sample.
“It works by detecting ammonia, which is usually found in higher levels where faecal pollution is present.
“The test is reusable - it can be used up to 100 times and results are revealed within five minutes in the field. Overall, the test offers a cheaper and faster way to detect faecal pollution, which can pose health risks to recreational water users.
“The low cost and simplicity of the test means that council health officers can test more samples more often from local waterways near the beach, making it safer for everyone to enjoy,” he said.
The test is now being routinely used by Environmental Health Officers at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. EPA is also working with its partner organisations on implementing the test at Frankston Beach.
The Stormwater Victoria Awards recognise innovations in stormwater management that help protect the health of our beaches, ecosystems and communities.
Water quality updates are available on the Cleaner Yarra and Bay website: www.cleaneryarraandbay.vic.gov.au