Predicted rainfall to assist in clean-up

Rainfall forecast for the weekend is expected to raise the Makotuku Stream and help flush diesel residue out of banks and vegetation as Horizons Regional Council continues its clean-up efforts.

Horizons group manager strategy and regulation Dr Nic Peet says another 100mm of rain is predicted through until Saturday, which should be enough to flush most of the remaining diesel through.

“The downpour is expected to raise Makotuku Stream above the levels it was at when the diesel spill occurred.

“If it falls as predicted, vegetation and the sides of the channel will be inundated for several hours at least and we anticipate a reduction in the amount of visible residue coming down the stream by Monday,” he says.

Horizons will carry out visual sampling early next week, with a view to taking formal samples should sniff and sight tests find significant amounts remaining.

Soil removed from Turoa Ski Field has tested positive for very high levels of hydrocarbons. Results due back next week will confirm whether further soil excavation is required.

Dr Peet says absorbent booms currently in place at the Round the Mountain track and Horopito will remain in place over the weekend but are likely to be removed on Monday.

“At this point, these booms are no longer capturing a significant amount of diesel and the Horopito boom will be repositioned above the Makotuku intake structure.

“Leaving this boom in place above the intake for several weeks or even months will help provide an indication of what’s happening in the stream and whether enough diesel is still being captured to effect water supply.”

More information about the situation as it relates to Raetihi’s water supply can be found on the Ruapehu District Council website www.ruapehudc.govt.nz

ENDS

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