By XAVIER SMERDON
A WERRIBEE South farmer has been fined nearly $1500 for causing an environmental hazard when he allegedly dumped herbicide near Port Phillip Bay.
The Environmental Protection Agency responded to a report of a chemical spill in a storm waterway on Duncans Rd in Werribee South in January this year.
Metro Manager of the EPA, Richard Marks, said they inspected the premises and confirmed the report after observing bright yellow liquid in a storm water drain.
EPA officers traced the spill to a farm on Duncans Rd and viewed a container of herbicide which was confirmed to be in the form of a bright yellow liquid.
Samples were taken from various locations including the on-site storm water pit and off site drains on Duncans Rd. Samples indicated elevated levels of herbicide in the storm water system.
“The stormwater drain on Duncans Rd, Werribee South leads directly to Port Phillip Bay and there was concern that if the herbicide reached the Bay that it would harm the vegetation in particular sea grass beds,” Mr Marks said.
“Landowners need to responsibly manage their properties and use the appropriate options for the storage and disposal of hazardous waste, such as manufacturer returns, local council services and regional waste groups.”
Southern Rural Water contained the herbicide to a section of the drain and arranged for its removal.
The Werribee South farmer has 28 days to pay the fine or have the matter dealt with in court or apply for a review of the decision.
