Penneshaw (Christmas Cove)
EPA assessment area
In June 2023, the EPA commenced an investigation into the cause of recurring petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated water seeping out of the embankment at Christmas Cove.
Samples collected from the investigation wells confirmed groundwater is contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons within the Penneshaw EPA Assessment Area. These are a group of chemicals typically found in fuels such as kerosene, petrol, diesel and motor oil.
Historical leaks that occurred over a long period of time are the likely sources of the groundwater contamination. These may be related to underground fuel storage tanks and/or related infrastructure, such as pipes and bowsers.
The EPA is continuing to work with the Kangaroo Island Council on the managing the oily discharge observed at the embankment.
A groundwater prohibition area was established on 28 March 2024 and published in the Government Gazette. Taking of groundwater is prohibited in the watertable aquifer and any deeper water bearing zones hydraulically connected to the watertable aquifer up to 30 metres below ground surface within the specified area. The site contamination affecting the groundwater is in the form of petroleum hydrocarbons which represent actual or potential harm to human health or safety.
For more details, please check out EngageEPA.
