Asbestos found near Queensland dam

Authorities have played down concerns about drinking water for residents in Brisbane's bayside, after asbestos material was found dumped near Leslie Harrison Dam.

Samples of the material were taken on Wednesday last week and were found to contain asbestos, after water management company Seqwater was alerted by Redland City Council.

Seqwater has now put measures in place to contain the asbestos and prevent it from running into the nearby Tingalpa Reservoir.

But Seqwater spokesman Mike Foster said even if it did, there wouldn't be any risk to local residents.

"There is no evidence that any of the contaminated soil has been transferred into Leslie Harrison Dam," Mr Foster said

"However, even if this did occur, the Capalaba Water Treatment Plant is designed to remove asbestos fibres."

Mr Foster said approximately 200-300 cubic metres of contaminated soil had been detected, with work to remove it expected to be completed by Tuesday.

It's believed the material was dumped as part of soil and other filler to make a moto-cross or BMX track on the site, which is owned by Seqwater, without permission.

The Department of Heritage and Environment Protection has been notified, and Seqwater is considering legal action.