REDUCE THE SILICA LEVELS (CAUSING SCALE) IN BROOME WATER BY INSTALLING A REVERSE OSMOSIS TREATMENT PLANT FOR THE BROOME WATER SUPPLY.

We the undersigned are requesting the Minister for Environment; Water to consider attaching a reverse osmosis treatment plant to the Broome drinking water supply. The water supply in Broome has elevated levels of silica in the groundwater supply. Data supplied by the Water Corporation indicate silica levels are currently between 90 and 95 mg/L, up to four and a half times higher than silica levels in surrounding West Kimberley towns of Derby (13 to 17 mg/L), Camballin (21 to 26 mg/L) and Fitzroy Crossing (19 to 21 mg/L). The scale produced from the elevated Silica levels causes damage and staining to surface coatings on enamel, ceramics, glass, perspex, stainless steel and plumbing fittings as well as outer cladding (colourbond steel) and vehicle paint work. The scale produced also causes blockages in household appliances, reticulation systems and other pipe work. Scale from the silica is unsightly and with very few products available to treat it is very difficult to remove. Most people try harsh chemicals or use wet and dry sandpaper to remove it from surfaces. The quantity of residents using products containing harsh chemicals in attempts to remove the scale will be greatly reduced if a Reverse Osmosis plant is installed. A Reverse Osmosis treatment plant would also reduce other metals and minerals including: Aluminium, Barium, Bicarbonate, Bromide, Cadmium, Chloride, Copper, Cyanide, Detergents, Fluoride, Iron, Lead, Magnesium, Manganese, Mercury , Nitrate, Organic Pesticides, Phosphates, Potassium, Silicate, Sodium, Sulphate and Zinc. The town of Broome is expanding with Januburu -Six Seasons allowing for 345 new homes and the Broome North (Waranyjarri Estate) development eventually housing up to 13,000 people. Roebuck Estate also continues to expand. With housing development increasing Broome's population, we ask that you seriously consider including a Reverse Osmosis treatment plant for the Broome water supply in the next budget prepared. Thank you for your time. Residents of Broome, Western Australia.