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Coliban Water says rubbish dumping, four-wheel driving and vandalism are increasingly causing damage at its Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant in Epsom, used to treat biosolids from sewage.
Coliban Water strategy and governance general manager, Andrew Cooney, said people illegally accessing the area had caused more than $7000 damage to perimeter gates and fences at an area of the plant north of Simpsons Road during the past six months.
“People illegally entering our plant may not be aware that part of the land is used for treating biosolids,” he said.
“The drying of biosolids is a controlled process in the treatment of wastewater sludge, and is regulated by the Environment Protection Authority.”
Mr Cooney said trespassers had rammed the gates to the site in February and stolen gates near the biosolids drying area, which was subsequently driven over several times.
“Not only is this damaging to the biosolid process, but the vehicles entering the area are spreading chemicals and potentially harmful organisms,” he said.
“Biosolids are used as fertiliser and can contain toxins and pathogens, particularly at the time of production.
“As with all fertilisers, good hygiene practices are essential for people coming in contact with them.”
Mr Cooney said items dumped during the past six months included mattresses, child car seats, car parts and general household waste.
“Illegal dumping causes land pollution and impacts on native plants and animals,” he said.
“It is potentially dangerous for our staff cleaning up and a waste of their time and resources, as we have to regularly patrol the area.
“These costs and the costs to repair fencing and signage are ultimately passed on to our customers.”
Trespassing on Coliban Water land is illegal and can result in prosecution, while the EPA has the power to prosecute offenders for the illegal dumping of rubbish.
Illegal rubbish dumping can be reported on the 24-hour EPA pollution hotline on 1300 372 842, or to police on 5448 1300.