The Ballina Shire Council has lifted its ‘red alert’ warning for Lake Ainsworth but is still advising swimmers to avoid some areas of the lake.
An outbreak of toxic blue-green algae had forced the council to erect warning signs and close the lake to swimmers in recent weeks.
But after two consecutive tests over the past two weeks, the dangerous levels of algae in the lake had fallen below the red alert levels.
A council spokesperson said Lake Ainsworth was now at ‘amber alert’ with some visible scums in certain areas of the lake.
‘As the red alert has been lifted there are no longer any restrictions on recreational activities, however areas where visible scums are present should be avoided,’ the spokesperson said.
‘Council will continue to monitor the algae levels as there is a risk of another bloom occurring due to the recent red alert and current weather conditions.
The algae status of Lake Ainsworth is updated weekly on the council’s website
ballina.nsw.gov.au
Updates about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can also be obtained by calling NSW Water on 1800 999 457 or visiting waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae
Is Lake Ainsworth is on the same water table as the sugar cane fields?
Fertiliser is used in great amounts to grow sugar.
Put it together and you have algae blooms.