Discharge of partially treated effluent

Icon Water advises that due to the heavy rain over recent days and significantly increased flow in the sewerage system, the Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre wastewater treatment plant bypass dam is discharging partially treated and settled effluent into the Molonglo River.  

Some discharges of partially treated effluent may still occur over the coming days as we continue to process the inflow following the heavy rainfall across the Canberra region over the recent days.  
 
The majority of effluent discharged from the plant continues to be fully treated and disinfected. Stormwater from heavy rains dilutes effluent received at the plant and increases river height and flows. The proportion of partially treated effluent released into the river system represents less than 1% of the current Murrumbidgee River flow. 
 
Icon Water recommends that residents on the section of the Murrumbidgee River from the junction of the Molonglo River and above Burrinjuck Reservoir, avoid drawing water from the river for either potable (drinking or food preparation) or non-potable (domestic or stock watering) purposes for the coming days. Icon Water also advises against swimming and other bodily contact water sports in this section of the Murrumbidgee River over this period.  
 
There is no risk to the ACT water supply as the effluent is released downstream of our water sources. ACT residents can continue to use their taps and drinking water as usual.  
 
Icon Water has notified the ACT and NSW Environment Protection Authorities (EPAs), ACT and NSW Health, and nearby residents affected by the discharge.  

For further information, please call Icon Water’s faults and emergencies line on 02 6248 3111. For updates, please go to iconwater.com.au/mediareleases or twitter.com/iconwater.