❓ Question on Notice regarding salinity levels in Wellington Dam, including the existence, size, and removal of a saline slug, historical salinity levels, and the impact of recreational use on water potability.
AnsweredQoN 1355Legislative Council
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My question pertains to salinity levels and the Wellington Dam and it will be asked in parts. I think I already have the answer. I gave members the answer a while ago. Hon Ken Travers: Someone has written out clear instructions for you; that is all it is. The PRESIDENT: Order! The member will proceed with the question. Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS
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I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Ken Travers: Someone has written out clear instructions for you; that is all it is. The PRESIDENT: Order! The member will proceed with the question. Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The PRESIDENT: Order! The member will proceed with the question. Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
(c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
(d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(f) will the minister quantify the level of success?
(3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Ken Travers: Someone has written out clear instructions for you; that is all it is. The PRESIDENT: Order! The member will proceed with the question. Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The PRESIDENT: Order! The member will proceed with the question. Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: My apologies, Mr President. (1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(1) Is there a saline slug of water on the bottom of the Wellington Dam? (a) If so, what is the salinity level of the slug in parts per million compared with the rest of the water; (b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available; Hon Tom Stephens: You make it sound like the Loch Ness monster. The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(b) what is the estimated size of this slug in gigalitres; (c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
(c) what is the size expressed as a percentage of the total volume of the dam; (d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
(d) is the volume of this more saline slug excluded when making calculations about the useable water that is available;
The PRESIDENT: Order! Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: We will see whether I can wriggle an answer from the minister. It continues - (e) what, if any, steps have been taken to remove this saline slug and how effective have the measures been to date; and (f) will the minister quantify the level of success? (2) What have the average annual salinity levels measured over the past 20 years? (3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(f) will the minister quantify the level of success?
(3) Does the recreational use of the dam mean that the water is not now available to the Water Corporation as a source of potable water? If so, what incentive does the Water Corporation have to fix the salinity problem or to consider this large volume of water as part of the available resource? The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The PRESIDENT: Before giving the minister the call, I will comment on 12 or 13 part questions. They prevent other members from asking questions. If another member asks a question in excess of nine or 10 questions, I will rule it out of order. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Tom Stephens: Tell us about the slug. Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I will not do so at a snail’s pace. The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
The Water Corporation advises that - (1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(1) (a)-(f) Some 14.8 gigalitres of water in the dam has a salinity level of up to 1 880 milligrams per litre total dissolved salts - TDS. As a result of scouring the base of the Wellington reservoir this winter, there is no saline slug remaining on the bottom of the reservoir. Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon Paddy Embry: Is it in the zoo? Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
Hon NICK GRIFFITHS: I hope it is behind bars. (2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(2) As salinity levels can vary within the reservoir and in between seasons, the salinity level during late summer provides a reasonable guide to the average salinity of the reservoir. Late summer salinity recordings since 1994 show an average salinity of 869 milligrams per litre TDS. (3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
(3) Recreational use is inconsistent with the use of the water as potable water unless expensive treatment is undertaken.
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