Builders and renovators around Lake Macquarie are being warned to watch their waste.
A new campaign aimed at reducing the 60,000 tonnes of construction site erosion that end up in the iconic waterway was launched by Lake Macqaurie City Council today, Friday 12 June.
‘Get the site right’ is about encouraging developers, builders and home renovators to implement appropriate erosion and sediment controls.
Council’s acting manager development assessment and compliance, Elizabeth Lambert, said the campaign was born out of necessity.
“Up to four truckloads of soil from an average domestic building site can be washed away in a single storm if not properly contained,” Ms Lambert said.
The campaign will see Council’s Erosion and Sediment Control Officer Janine Koppel inspecting sites Citywide, with particular focus on construction hot-spots in Catherine Hill Bay, Cameron Park and Teralba.
“The campaign couldn’t come at a better time, with the increase in home renovation and DIY projects during COVID-19,” Ms Koppel said.
“Regardless of the project size, implementing proper erosion and sediment controls is key to protecting our waterways.”
Ms Lambert said builders and renovators needed to be aware their actions could have a significant impact on the health of waterways.
“When sediments and other building materials are washed down stormwater drains and into our waterways it not only degrades water quality, but can destroy aquatic habitats,” Ms Lambert said.
“Get the Site Right is an important part of our ongoing strategy to manage the environmental impacts of construction. We want to help improve the health of the lake for the entire community and the benefit of the environment.”
Go to lakemac.com.au for more information on erosion and sediment control responsibilities.
Members of the public can report pollution incidents, including poor erosion and sediment control and water pollution, to the EPA on 131 555, to Council on 4921 0333 or via [email protected].
