The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) is investigating the illegal dumping of a blue substance into the Lower Vasse River last week on Thursday, 2 March 2023.
The blue substance caused the river to turn blue upstream and downstream of the Strelly Street Bridge and downstream of the Causeway Bridge.
The City of Busselton reported the incident to DWER Pollution Watch after receiving reports of someone illegally tipping the blue substance into the river below the Causeway Bridge.
After the incident was reported, the department launched an investigation, collecting water quality samples and measurements in the river.
The initial investigation found that dissolved oxygen levels were lower where the blue substance was visually present. The Lower Vasse River is an important habitat for native fish, molluscs, crustaceans and bird species.
A DWER spokesperson said that the department will be investigating the incident and the results from the initial sampling will be available in the coming weeks.
“The illegal dumping of substances into our precious waterways can have serious impacts on our wildlife and ecosystems.
“We are calling on the community to report any information regarding the illegal dumping in the Lower Vasse River by contacting Pollution Watch on 1300 784 782,” they said.
“Offences of this nature can result in penalties up to $125,000 under the Environmental Protection Act 1986.”
If the public sees any illegal activity, they can report it to Pollution Watch on 1300 784 782. If the public sees any struggling or dead fish, they can report it to FishWatch on 1800 815 507.