The Gisborne Times PUBLISHED EVERY MORNING GISBORNE, FEBRUARY 27, 1902. DISCOLORATION OF WATER.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 351, 27 February 1902, Page 2

The Gisborne Times PUBLISHED EVERY MORNING GISBORNE, FEBRUARY 27, 1902. DISCOLORATION OF WATER.

The correspondence in regard to the discoloration of the water in the Tarul'tni and Wuimata rivers has made the desire more keen'to have some exuliination of the real cause. Dr Cole has drawn our attention to the scienUlie aspect of the question, authorities showing that sueli discoloration as is seen in the Taruheru river at low water is usually due to the abundant growth of algae and other microscopic organisms and their subsequent degeneration. Dr Cole informs us that in regard to the Taruheru river the question could easily be settled by proper microscopic and chemical examination. Dr Cole refers our alien, tion to a work on Hygiene and Public Health, which slates: “Occasionally the water of lakes and open reservoirs becomes contaminated by the growth and subsequent decay of algae and other microscopic organisms. In some instances so abundant'is the growth of the organism that the water becomes colored red or green blue, according to the nature ofthe organisms, and is also turbid and evil smelling. Beyond the unpleasantness arising from the odour and turbidity of the water, and the disturbance of the sand filter beds when the reservoir water is subjected to filtration, it does not appear-that litis contamination induces any injurious effect, upon the health of the consumers ” Of course, in regard to the Taruheru, the river being tidal, there is no question as to whether or not the water would he affected for drinking purposes, but simply as to the cause, and whether or not it is wise to use the water for bathing in and for street watering purposes. From what Dr Cole states the Council could easily have the subject decided practically without expense.