A fortnight ago, Gundaroo farming couple Bill and Jacinta Ryan were dismayed to find their paddocks covered in debris deposited by the recent floods. The Ryans were worried that the pollutants could enter the Yass drinking water supply, causing health problems for residents downstream.

"Yass Valley Council do have concerns in regards to the quality of the water," a spokesperson said.

"However, Council does not have control over the river, and would hope that all adjacent landowners would value the river system and prevent any pollution from taking place.

"The landowner has kindly removed the debris, and the risk in this particular instance was eliminated."

The council spokesperson reassured the public that the Yass water supply is treated at the waterworks to provide a safe drinking water supply in accordance with NSW Health requirements.

"It is difficult to control what happens on properties along the river system, as YVC relies on landowners to do the right thing and keep waste out of the river and away from the floodplain so that waste is not washed into the river. Resources do not permit regular inspections of our river or waterways."

Yass Valley Council will program media releases, website articles, provide Gundaroo Gazette information, and carry out a letterbox drop for landowners in the Gundaroo area to encourage residents to keep floodplains free of litter and to safely dispose of chemicals and waste.

For updates, visit the Yass Valley Council website: https://www.yassvalley.nsw.gov.au/.