Letters To Editor: Find better way to stop sewage

Find better way to stop sewage
Cycling along the lime-topped river banks at Taradale made possible by an inspired mayoress, it is now possible to see riverside animal and bird life we couldn't see before - as well as what otherwise is "out of sight, out of mind". As I write I know only because local papers revealed it, billions of litres of untreated sewage is being pumped into the Bay - and will continue to be for the eight weeks it takes to restore the "milliscreening capability" which removes most "floatables".
I suppose we always knew cattle alongside rivers must contribute to the Bay's sewage loading but until seen actually doing so, the full consequences of such contribution may not inspire the mind to alternatives.
What if farmers/councils did fence off stock from waterways?
And what if we came up with a five-year plan involving land-based treatment, instead of the illusion that milliscreening is the best we can do - and run-offs and "dumps-into" have no effect on our waterways and oceans, no matter how diluted?
Alternatives adopted by Christchurch and Auckland since the 1950s and '60s were farsighted. And new technology now means the gas and spreadable fertiliser by-products of such water transparency can also yield financial returns.
Steve Liddle, Napier
Concerns over TPPA
I share the concern of Mr Wakely (HBT, July 23) over the meeting of John Key with President Obama. My concern is intensified by what I read about the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA).
This is being negotiated in secret among nine countries, including the US.
This is no ordinary free-trade deal. It will reach deeply into the policy and ability to regulate within each country, and we can be sure the US will make sure it satisfies the powerful American corporations and agricultural businesses.
The TPPA threatens our ability to protect our environment, our pharmaceuticals, our water, our intellectual property rights, our labour laws, our telecommunications, our investment laws and much more.
The text of this agreement will not become public until after it has been signed.
We need to act now and let John Key know that we oppose such a secretive and undemocratic process. This agreement is explicitly designed to prevent us from reversing any of its terms when we realise they are unacceptable.
We must not allow John Key to take such risks with our future.
Margaret Gwynn, Napier
Racing and drinking
A liquor licence for the Hawke's Bay Racing Spring Carnival has been issued despite opposition by the police and the Liquor Licensing inspector.
Police and a liquor inspector said Hawke' Bay Racing had repeatedly failed to comply with its special alcohol licence conditions despite assurances each year that it would improve.
HB Racing general manager Jason Fleming and club chairman Mick Ormond acknowledged the failings of previous years.
Even the organisers agree a drunken day at the races is not a good look.
Maybe it is time to make the position of whoever grants this licence an elected position.
Let the people decide if this person reflects the aspirations of the majority of local people.
The HB Spring Carnival people say it would not be viable without alcohol. Okay, let's not grant a licence to the local drunks.
Boycott the Hawke' Bay Racing Spring Carnival. Maybe that will get the message through.
Kelvyn Stevens, Hastings
Marineland idea
I have been following the story about your marine animal centre Marineland from our own marine aquarium, CMA, here in Florida, US.
I refer to the article about the Marineland Rangers' suggestion for an open day at Marineland to raise funds for your earthquake-devastated city of Christchurch.
What a truly thoughtful idea.
I hope the children get the backing they deserve from the public and the city council.
What a great job kids! You are making this world a better place. Keep up the awesome work and don't give up! Facilities like these are worth fighting for.
I am sending you a DVD which tells the story about our most well-known rescued marine animal, Winter, for you to watch at your club's next get together and one to give away on your website. I will keep an eye on what's happening with your Marineland and have my fingers crossed for a positive outcome.
M Clary, Florida, US