TWEED WATER Restrictions have been lifted although salt levels have only marginally dropped at Bray Park Weir following the weekend, according to Tweed Shire Council Manager of Water and Wastewater Anthony Burnham.
Mr Burnham told The Weekly that Tweed water remains safe to drink however residents were asked to take care when watering salt intolerant plants.
“Salt levels only marginally improved at Bray Park Weir during the weekend. So the town water supply therefore remains affected by salt,” he said.
“The levels of salt are somewhat lower than when the problem first occurred and the water remains well within the ‘good’ quality classification for total dissolved solids in accordance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
“The water has been distributed to most areas now, so the salty taste is affecting most consumers to some extent.
“The restriction on outdoor water use has now been lifted. The water it is suitable for outdoor use such as washing cars.
“Council continued dredging the weir all weekend and is increasing the dredging capabilities this morning.
Mr Burnham said he expects the salt content to improve during the next 3-5 days.
“We are also continuing to release fresh water from the dam to ensure flow through the weir. This situation is being monitored closely and will change as salt levels reduce further,” he said.
“It is expected that once the salt is cleared from the weir pool, the salty taste in the water will reduce over the next week or so.
“Drinking water for Uki and Tyalgum is not affected.”