THE EDITOR, Sir:
OVER THE past 25 years there has been a phenomenal growth in both commercial and residential construction in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth.
Unfortunately, the sanitary sewage needs of most structures in Santa Cruz are realised through the utilisation of absorption pits which discharge their liquid wastes via the carst limestone underground formation, ending up in the underground water (aquifer).
The main water supply for Santa Cruz and its surrounds is from a pumped well situated in the lowest area of the town where the ground elevation is approximately 20 feet above sea level. The pumping of the well creates a cone of influence drawing towards the well all that contaminated effluent from the numerous absorption pits.
Very soon, the citizens of the area will be facing serious health hazards as the well becomes contaminated with coliforms.
Immediate action needs to be taken to either relocate the well to higher ground like the North Hampton area; or, preferably, construct a sanitary sewage treatment plant and pipe all waste water from substantial and future structures to the new sewage treatment plant. Your assistance in getting out this urgent message to the local health authorities will be greatly appreciated.
I am, etc.,
ALBERT E. ROSE, P.E.
ar@adairbrady.com
Wellington, Florida
Via Go-Jamaica
