The recent spate of hot weather that we are currently experiencing and low flows in the Macintyre River have lead to an algal bloom in Lake Inverell.
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The Barwon Regional Algal Coordinating Committee (RACC) issued a red alert level warning (high alert) for blue-green algae in Lake Inverell on Friday.
A high alert indicates that waters are unsuitable for recreational use or primary contact by domestic users and may also pose a threat to livestock.
The species of blue-green algae identified are potentially toxic and may cause gastroenteritis in humans if consumed and skin and eye irritations after contact. Boiling the water does not inactivate algal toxins.
Algal blooms can develop in a 24 hour period and can spread rapidly in a water body. Existing blooms are also subject to prevailing winds and can be moved about over wide areas in a short time
People should avoid any water that appears bright green, where obvious green scums are present, or a distinctive odour is noticeable. Blue-green algae are usually very obvious, appearing as clumps or specs in the water and are often associated with a strong musty or earthy odour.
People are advised not to enter the water, and are further advised not to drink untreated water or bathe in untreated water drawn from the lake whilst a red level warning is in place.
Livestock owners in the vicinity are reminded to continue to check stock water supplies for blue-green algae and to remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected as blue-green algae are known to cause stock illness or even death.
Domestic pets should also be kept away from the area, especially dogs which are particularly susceptible as they can ingest algae by licking their coats
There is some evidence that small quantities of algal toxins may enter fish flesh when a bloom produces toxins. Any fish caught in water affected by a bloom should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of before consumption.
People should not eat mussels, crayfish or the internal organs of fish from red alert areas.
This red level warning will remain in place until such time as the Barwon Regional Algal Coordinating Committee advises that it has been lifted.
Information updates about blue-green algae blooms and Red Level Warning areas can be obtained from the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457.
