WaterNSW has issued a Red Alert warning for high levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae for Malpas Dam located near Guyra.
The Red Alert warning applies only to untreated water at the identified location and will remain in place until monitoring confirms that the risk is sufficiently diminished. Public access for recreational use at Malpas Dam is not recommended until the Red Alert is lifted.
Those using stock and domestic water upstream and downstream of Malpas Dam should exercise caution, regularly check water supplies for algae, and seek alternate water sources if they suspect algae contamination.
People should avoid recreational activities such as swimming, water skiing, canoeing and any other activity that brings them into contact in water waterbodies until Red Alert warnings are lifted. People should avoid consuming untreated water drawn directly from this waterbody and prevent pets and livestock from drinking this water.
Potentially toxic blue-green algae may cause gastroenteritis if consumed, while contact can cause skin and eye irritations. Consumption of water containing algal toxins may cause liver damage and other health problems. Boiling the water does not remove algal toxins.
People who suspect they have been affected by blue-green algae should seek medical advice. People should not eat mussels or crayfish from red alert warning areas. A precautionary approach to eating fin fish from red alert warning areas is advised. Any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water; the internal organs should not be eaten. Avoiding fishing during a bloom is the best way to minimise risk.
Guyra is no stranger to water quality issues, however the news will be concerning for Guyra’s Lamb and Potato Festival to be held next month, with a number of people complaining they got sick from the water at last year’s event.
Blue-green algae is naturally occurring and can reproduce quickly in still or slow-flowing water when there is abundant sunlight and suIficient nutrients. If there are concerns regarding treated water supplies, visit the local council or local water utility websites for information about the management of blue-green algae in the treated drinking water.
Updates and information about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by visiting www.waternsw.com.au/algae.
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