The Faecal Source Tracking Pilot Project aims to detect whether the Enterococci bacteria found in water samples taken monthly from the Tamar Estuary, has come from cattle, horses, sheep, septic tank systems or sewage treatment plants at Ti Tree Bend, Riverside, Newnham and Legana. 

Results were due to be released at the end of June.

But on Monday a spokeswoman for NRM said the group was collating data ahead of the release in August. 

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The date comes days after the state government announced it had charged a newly-formed taskforce with recommending a solution to the river’s poor quality within six months.

That recommendation, combined with an accelerated upgrade program of TasWater’s treatment plants, is hoped to provide a final solution to the river’s pollution problem.

Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Jan Davis welcomed the push to improve the river quality.

“There has been growing interest and investment in tourism that takes advantage of this beautiful setting,” she said. 

“Yet, the Tamar Estuary has been neglected for years, while passing the buck about its appalling state has become a spectator sport.”

Ms Davis said Launceston’s poor river quality had not fitted with many people’s views about Tasmania.

“The Tasmanian brand is firmly based on our clean and green reputation,” she said.

“Yet in many respects we do not walk the talk.

“This long-overdue focus on the Tamar will deliver solutions that ensure we deliver on that promise.”