Investigation into extent of contamination at Argenton


10th August 2017
The EPA is investigating the extent of soil and possible groundwater contamination around the old Mines Rescue station at Argenton. The contamination is caused by...

 

As you may have read or heard in the news, the EPA is investigating the extent of soil and possible groundwater contamination around the old Mines Rescue station at Argenton.

The contamination is caused by PFAS chemicals which were used on the site prior to 2002 when firefighting foam was used in training exercises.

It’s important to note that the EPA and NSW Health say there is no consistent evidence that this contamination has an effect on human health, but that is not to say we should be complacent.

An investigation over the next month will determine the extent of the contamination, with a final report due next month.

This is the same contamination issue relating to the Williamtown air base and surrounding districts, but the situation at Argenton is different, mainly because no groundwater is used by bores at Argenton homes or used to water food crops.

I’ve made representations to Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton today and she has assured me that I’ll be kept up to date throughout the investigation period.

In the meantime, Mines Rescue has issued a fact sheet on the Argenton issue which you can read here.

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