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News and Events

Dust in Port Augusta During Summer

Published 26th November 2020
Dust can be a major issue in Port Augusta, particularly during summer. As well as being unsightly, dust can also cause health issues particularly those with existing health conditions such as asthma. Each year Council receives numerous complaints relating to dust; however there are only certain situations where Council are in a position to act.

Dust can be a major issue in Port Augusta, particularly during summer. As well as being unsightly, dust can also cause health issues particularly those with existing health conditions such as asthma. Each year Council receives numerous complaints relating to dust; however there are only certain situations where Council are in a position to act. Large scale weather related events where the whole town experiences dust issues are outside of Council’s control. Situations where Council can act are:

  • Construction
  • Demolition
  • Landscaping
  • Land clearing

Often these types of activities have conditions set to ensure dust is minimised.

Individuals undertaking work on their property can minimize dust in the following ways:

  • Schedule activities on low wind days
  • Use barriers such as shade cloth fencing to ensure dust stays on the site
  • Spray water on topsoil to reduce the amount of dust leaving the site
  • Retain as much vegetation as possible onsite

Before reporting dust issues to Council you should try to discuss your concerns where the issue arises (eg. Neighbours, Contractors, Industrial Development). It is likely they may not be aware that they are causing an issue. Often a simple solution can be found that satisfies all parties involved. Council will generally only become involved if an issue in the community cannot be resolved or the issue is on a broad scale involving multiple parties.

If you notice any concerning dust issues across Port Augusta over the Summer period, please contact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on (08) 8204 2004.

For further information please contact Council’s Media and Communications Officer on (08) 8641 9100

JOHN BANKS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
26/11/2020