Blue-green algae levels are at red alert at Telarah Lagoon and Walka Water Works.
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Executive Manager Planning Environment and Lifestyle Bernie Mortomore said the red alert level meant the algae posted a health risk to people and animals.
“Blue-green algae can be a serious environmental and human health problem with the release of toxins and skin irritants,” Mr Mortomore said.
“Anyone visiting the waterbodies should avoid contact with the water whilst the bloom remains. Domestic pets and livestock should also be prevented from coming into contact with the water.”
Blue-green algae are microscopic cells that grow naturally in Australian fresh and saline waters. However, when conditions are favourable for algae growth blooms can occur, which can be seen as a thick paint like accumulation on the water’s surface or as small green floating dots. Scums are normally green or blue-green in colour and have a distinctive earthy smell.
Along with the warming temperatures, high nutrient levels, slow flow and low wind also encourage the growth of blue-green algae.
Blue-green algae may cause severe stomach upsets, nausea and skin irritation in both people and animals following contact. It may contain toxins which cannot be removed by boiling the water.
Hunter New England Health advised people who believe they may have been affected by the algae to seek medical treatment.
Signage has been placed at all tested sites, but landholders, community and recreational fishers are reminded that algae can be present in any water body and you should not eat anything caught in waters affected by algal blooms.
To play your part in reducing the likelihood of a bloom occurring in one of Maitland’s water bodies this summer you should reduce the amount of nutrients going into local waterways by washing your car on the grass or at a car wash, using a broom not a hose to clear up leaves, cleaning out your gutter regularly and being responsible in the application of fertilisers.
It is important to report suspected blue-green algal blooms in local waterways by calling 131 555.
Up to date information is available by phoning 1800 999 457 or visiting water.nsw.gov.au/Water-Management/Water-quality/Algal-information/default.aspx