‘Keep contaminants out of stormwater’

South Canterbury DIYers are being asked to consider what they put into the water, following an increase in stormwater issues over summer.

Timaru District Council drainage and water manager Grant Hall said it had already seen some ‘‘serious contamination’’ issues over the past few months, including a recent incident where a private homeowner washed paint brushes at the front of their home. The paint eventually ended up in a waterway requiring an emergency cleanup.

Hall said the contamination was an issue that needed to be taken seriously. He said stormwater was not processed in the same way as the water that leaves a home’s sinks and toilets – when contaminants, such as paint, oil and solvents, go down stormwater drains they don’t go to the treatment plant, they go out into the environment.

‘‘Most people tend to think that a good rainfall might flush the system out,’’ Hall said.

‘‘However, a large rainfall can flush polluted water through the system as well as clean water and there are limits to how much treatment we can do to the water while ensuring the system prevents flooding.

‘‘The best thing everyone can do is to reduce the amount of contaminants in the stormwater system in the first place.’’

Hall said there were some simple messages to remember as people did their handiwork.

These include not hosing household cleaners, paint or any other chemicals down the stormwater drain.

‘‘Follow the instructions on the packaging on how to dispose of them safely. If you see someone putting contaminants down the stormwater drain, you can report it on (03) 687 7200.’’

Meanwhile, he said pet waste contained bacteria and disease causing organisms that could infect people and other animals.

‘‘Bag it up and put it in the red bin.’’

He also recommended people get their car serviced regularly, as ‘‘one litre of oil can contaminate a million litres of water’’.

‘‘Petrol station car washes treat and dispose of the wash water from cleaning cars. If you wash your car at home make sure it is away from the drain.’’

He also recommended planting natives.

‘‘The natural evolution of native plants has resulted in extensive root networks that are capable of preventing erosion, improving water quality and providing additional filtration,’’ Hall said.

‘‘By planting native plants for a private or public property the owner reduces the time and money as there is less maintenance required.’’