Blue-green algae: Windamere Dam's red alert
PEOPLE, pets and livestock downstream of Windamere Dam have been urged not to come into contact with the water following a red alert warning for blue-green algae.
The red alert warning (high alert) was issued by WaterNSW on Thursday morning and it came with strict rules for people and animals in the area.
"People should not undertake recreational activities where they may come into direct contact with the water, such as swimming, as well as domestic uses including showering and washing," the alert stated.
"Contact with the water may also pose a threat to livestock and pets."
WaterNSW staff are currently adjusting variable level off-take at the dam in an effort to reduce the level of blue-green algae from entering Cudgegong River below the dam.
"Stock and domestic users of this water should apply a high level of caution and use alternate water supplies," the alert states.
Meanwhile, town water supplies are unaffected and remain safe to drink.
Tips during the red alert
- People should not enter the water
- Do not to drink untreated water
- Do not bathe in water drawn from the dam
- Do not eat mussels or crayfish from red alert warning areas
- Any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of before consumption
- People who believe they may have been affected by blue-green algae should seek medical advice
- Livestock owners should continue to check stock water supplies for blue-green algae and remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected
What does this algae look like?
Blue-green algae usually appears as green paint-like scums on the water, near the edges, or as greenish clumps throughout the water.
It makes the water appear dirty, green or discoloured and generally has a strong musty or earthy odour.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally and can reproduce quickly in favourable conditions where there is still or slow-flowing water, abundant sunlight and sufficient levels of nutrients.
How long will the algae last?
WaterNSW says it is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels.
Regular monitoring will continue, and the alert will be lifted as soon as the high levels of algae dissipate.
Red alert warning has lifted for Windamere Dam
While the red alert for blue-green algae has been issued downstream of Windamere Dam, the red alert warning that was previously in place at Windamere Dam, upstream of Mudgee, has now been lifted.
Monitoring conducted by WaterNSW has shown that concentrations of blue-green algae have decreased in this part of the dam.
"While on an amber alert the water is generally considered suitable for water sports, but water users are still advised to exercise caution," WaterNSW said.
"It is advised not to drink untreated or boiled water from the storage due to the risk of stomach upsets.
"Water users should use personal discretion at all times before entering a water body and be aware that algal situations can change quickly."
Boiling the water does not inactivate algae toxins.
Updates about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by calling 1800 999 457 or visit www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae.