For immediate release: Thursday 19 November 2009

Environment Bay of Plenty’s sample of an area of exposed black sediment taken from the Matata Lagoon works last month has confirmed positive for dioxin as expected based on previous sampling information, however the level does not present a direct concern.

The result of the sample, which was collected on 29 October 2009, is consistent with pre-2005 dioxin results for the lagoon (Tonkin and Taylor report in September 2009) and based on a health risk assessment, is safe to be exposed.

Environment Bay of Plenty Group Manager Water Management Eddie Grogan said the result was as expected.

“AsureQuality lab in Wellington reported a total toxic equivalence (TEQ) of 3.91 pg/g for the sample,” Mr Grogan said.

“The black sediment accidentally exposed recently is not a risk if placed on dry ground; however as a precaution, any of the excavated black sediment will be covered by clean soil. We will be ensuring that Whakatane District Council, as the consent holder, complies with this and continues to provide a 300mm cover of clean material to any of the exposed pre-2005 sediment,” he said.

Whakatane District Council and concerned residents have received confirmation of the sample result.

“We certainly want to allay any concerns that residents may have and give assurance that we will be working closely with Whakatane District Council as the works continue,” Mr Grogan said.

ENDS

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