Water minister concerned about risks posed by back yard pits

Water Minister Matthew Samuda has re-emphasised concern about the risks posed by back yard pits due to potential ground water contamination.

This as high levels of nitrate can leak from the pits into sources of water meant for human consumption.   

Back yards pits, septic tanks and sewage discharge facilities store effluent and leaks from these into potable water sources can be dangerous to human health.

Mr. Samuda noted that Jamaica’s water supply is already being impacted by climate change related effects such as drought.

Contaminated drinking water sources would worsen the situation.

He said this environmental risk is also a financial risk.

Mr. Samuda noted that government is taking steps to ensure proper holding and treatment of effluent via modern sewage facilities.  

This includes the upgrading of the Soapberry waste water treatment plant.

He was speaking yesterday at the Rotaract district 7020 Nexus 360 degrease conference in Trelawny.