A red alert for Lake Ainsworth near Lennox Head has been issued by Ballina Council.
Council staff say, ‘People should avoid recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing and any other activity that brings them into contact with this water body’.
‘Users should obey all signage erected by Council. Slicks and scums should be avoided when present, as they are areas of concentrated algae and may present a health risk’.
‘Each year from November to April, Ballina Shire Council’s Health and Environment Team samples and monitors water samples from Lake Ainsworth’.
Council staff included information around blue green algae and its potential health risks.
‘Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are ancient single-celled organisms’. ‘Around 40 species are found in Australia, with some occasionally producing toxins. In Lake Ainsworth, species identified include Dolichospermum, Microcystis, Pseudanabaena, Chroococcus, Lyngbya and Oscillatoria.
‘Algae may sometimes appear as a bluish-green scum on calm water surfaces or along the shoreline.
‘Can blue green algae affect me?
‘Blue-green algae can cause skin and eye irritation, and at higher levels may produce nerve and liver toxins. Some people are more sensitive and should avoid contact, especially those with known allergies. For more information, visit the WaterNSW website.
‘Council follows national guidelines (NHMRC, 2008) when deciding if health warnings are required’.
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