The recent rainfall has helped downgrade blue-green algae alerts across the region.
Bray Park Weir has now been downgraded from amber to green which means that while blue-green algae is still present in small quantities ‘At these densities, the blue-green algae do not pose a threat to recreational, stock or domestic use’ according to Water NSW.
‘Algae levels have decreased, however without additional rain there may be further blue-green algae blooms in the coming months,’ said the manager water and wastewater operations at Tweed Shire Council Brie Jowett.
‘Treated water from the Tweed reticulated supply will continue to be safe to drink as our water treatment process removes algae and potential toxins, alongside taste and odour compounds.’
Testing raw water at Bray Park Weir will continue and Council will adjust its treatment processes as required to meet the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
The public is advised to remain cautious about recreational use at the weir and signs alerting people to the presence of blue-green algae remain at the public access points to the river near Bray Park, including Byangum Bridge.
Meanwhile, the blue-green algae alert at Clarrie Hall Dam remains at green.
‘As the species of algae identified has the gene capable of producing toxins we are keeping the signs advising recreational users of the dam to stay away from the water,’ Mrs Jowett said.
‘This is a precautionary approach as there is no evidence that the algae species has produced toxins at this stage.’
Warning signs at the dam wall and Crams Farm will stay in place advising that algae may be present and for recreational kayakers and fishers to avoid contact with the water.
Clarrie Hall Dam, the Uki pool where raw water is drawn for Uki village and Tyalgum Weir pool are also being tested weekly.
Blue-green algae occur naturally and can reproduce quickly in favourable conditions where there is still or slow-flowing water, abundant sunlight and sufficient levels of nutrients.
Water affected by blue-green algae appears to have a green paint-like scum on the water, near the edges, or greenish clumps throughout the water.
Lake Ainsworth remains free of any blue-green algae at this stage.
Anyone who thinks they may have been in contact with blue-green algal water is advised to seek medical advice if symptoms appear.
For the latest, visit Council’s website tweed.nsw.gov.au/WaterAndWastewater .
