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Blue Green Algae Warning Remains In Place For Lake Narracan

Latrobe City Council and Southern Rural Water are advising residents and visitors that a Blue Green Algae bloom warning remains in place for Lake Narracan.

By Latrobe City - 24th January 2012 - Back to News

Warning signs advising people not to swim, fish or come in contact with the water have been placed at several key locations at the reservoir.

Latrobe City’s acting manager recreational liveability, William Macpherson, said that the warm weather of late has contributed in part to the persistence of the bloom.

"We have been monitoring the bloom closely since the Algae was first detected early this month. The levels did drop during the weeks that followed the initial warning but unfortunately, we got news today that the most recent samples, taken on Tuesday, indicated an increase in blue green algae levels.

"These levels are above the maximum allowable level and are in part due to the warm weather of late.

"Testing will continue to take place on a weekly basis beginning next week. We require 2 consecutive tests with acceptable levels before we are in a position to remove the warning signs," Mr Macpherson said.

Health authorities warn that this water is not safe for recreational purposes, including swimming, fishing and boating.

Blue Green Algae can be dangerous to humans and animals. It can cause skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, gastroenteritis, nausea or vomiting. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for use.

Blue Green Algae may be invisible to the naked eye or may form a scum. The public is urged to avoid direct contact with contaminated water and to avoid water discoloured by Blue Green Algae scums.

People who come into direct contact with contaminated water should wash immediately in fresh water. If experiencing a health issue you think is related to contact with water contaminated by Blue Green Algae, please seek medical advice promptly.

For more information please contact Acting Manager Recreational Liveability, William Macpherson, on 5128 5660.

Media Enquiries:

Media Relations Team

Telephone: 5128 5458 or 0409 797 498

Jacinta Kennedy, Manager Community Relations

Telephone: 5128 5421 or 0401 824 195


Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com



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