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Eden DM EHPs devoted to routine Water Sampling of Coastal Areas

The Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) of the Eden District Municipality devote themselves to undertake routine water sampling of areas, situated along the Eden district, as a crucial part of the Municipal Health Services’ key performance areas.

Regular sampling of the following sites, situated within the five coastal areas are procured routinely, as well as prior to and during the December holiday season:

Bitou   – 5 sample sites
Knysna  – 9 sample sites
George   – 4 sample sites
Mossel Bay  – 5 sample sites
Hessequa  – 4 sample sites

Environmental Health Practitioners from Eden District Municipality continuously monitor rivers, estuaries, lagoons and the ocean, to ensure safe and pollutant free coastal areas for residents and visitors of the Eden district.

A total of 12 “Blue Flag” beaches have been identified and proclaimed within the entire District, emphasising the very important role this region represents as prominent holiday and tourist destination.

The purpose of sampling at these sites is to ensure that all recreational areas that are being utilised by local residents and visitors, are safe and pollutant-free.  The presence of pathogenic bacteria isolated in the water samples, is normally an indication of fecal pollution, which may originate from storm water run-off, pets and wildlife, as well as human sewerage.  If present in high concentrations in water and ingested while swimming or enter the skin via a cut or sore, it may cause ear and throat infections, as well as gastro -enteritis.

A collaborative approach regarding the management of all coastal water bodies (including rivers, estuaries, lagoons and the ocean) with all other stakeholders, e.g. the South African National Parks (SANParks) and Nature Conservation, will ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Coastal water bodies, such as rivers, estuaries, lagoons and the ocean, are regularly being monitored by Eden District Municipality’s Environmental Health Practitioners.

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