Update
GEORGE NEWS - Water samples for the Touw River obtained by George Municipality on 23/24 January, have returned all clear and as per Public Notice issued, swimming and water sports are permitted at all areas of the Touw River including River Mouth and Lagoon within designated swimming areas.
When issuing public notices about the river being compliant or non-compliant the municipality adheres strictly to the Water Quality Guidelines as set out by the Department of Water Services.
The parameters are as follows, for full contact (i.e swimming) a count of 130/100ml, and intermediate contact 1000/100ml.
George Municipality confirmed to the public via the George Herald on 7 January that following a mechanical failure at the Ebb and Flow pump station on 24 December, and again on 29 December, the municipality undertook to test the river water quality three times daily at three strategic points although the management of the river does not fall under George Municipality.
Erratic results about E-Coli levels were being received each day and a comprehensive investigation was launched to find the source of pollution and possible solutions.
The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management has advised us that they have been investigating this problem in the river for more than 20 years and on receipt of the report have called a multi-stakeholder workshop of the relevant parties involved for this week Thursday 27 January, which includes SANParks and the Breede-Gouritz Catchment Management Agency (BGCMA).
George Municipality is not the custodian of the Touw River as it is managed by SANParks in conjunction with BGCMA.
A joint statement will be issued thereafter. All parties involved remain committed to protecting and retaining this natural attraction and ensuring it is safe for all residents and visitors.
George Municipality takes note of an article that appeared in the George Herald last week (20 January) where the Blue Flag status of Wilderness Beach was questioned. The spillage on 24 December, occurred 3.5 km upstream from the river mouth and was contained and cleaned.
The river mouth was and is currently tested for E-Coli daily as of 24 December 2021. The Touw River mouth has remained compliant under the full contact and intermediate requirements as set out by the Department Water and Sanitation Water Quality Guideline, Volume 7, Aquatic Ecosystems, since 29 December 2021.
The wilderness beach area was/is tested for E-Coli and Streptococci as per the Blue Flag Requirements and has met the requirements as set out by the program.
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