Sweetwater Fishing Forums
General Category => Weather and Water Updates => Topic started by: Editor on November 08, 2014, 02:54:24 PM
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Unseasonably warm weather brings heightened risk of algae
06 Nov 2014 - Sunwater
SunWater is reminding visitors to dams over the coming months that warmer weather could lead to increases in blue-green algae (BGA) blooms.
SunWater Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager Gordon Delaney said BGA was commonly found in most large water storages across Queensland and the public should be aware it can pose potential health risks for people and livestock.
"BGA blooms are not uncommon at this time of year and occur to varying extents depending on climate, season and storage location," Mr Delaney said.
"As part of SunWater’s Environmental Management System, we regularly monitor BGA levels in our major storages across Queensland and advise the public of any risks through storage hazard information on SunWater’s website.
"There are many contaminants in addition to BGA that can find their way into water storages from various activities in the catchment, making the water unsuitable for direct drinking purposes.
"Using untreated dam water for domestic purposes can cause skin rashes and other health problems.
"Eating fish and crabs caught in dams that have higher than normal BGA levels can also pose a risk and people are advised to exercise care if considering eating their fishing catches.
"Graziers are advised that there is also a potential risk for livestock who may be grazing near water storages that contain high levels of BGA."
Mr Delaney said SunWater regularly updated BGA hazard signs at all its dam sites so people visiting the dams for recreational swimming, skiing, fishing or camping were informed of any potential risks.
"The risk of encountering BGA blooms will be listed as a low, moderate or high and we ask that visitors read the signs and take the necessary precautions at our dams," he said.
For the latest BGA hazard advisories at SunWater dams, visit the Water Storage Level section of www.sunwater.com.au (http://www.sunwater.com.au) or call 13 15 89.
List of current BGA levels at SunWater dams:
Far North Region:
Dam BGA Status Sample Date
Tinaroo Falls Moderate 14 October 2014
North Region:
Burdekin Falls Moderate 13 October 2014
Eungella Moderate 20 October 2014
Kinchant Moderate 20 October 2014
Peter Faust Moderate 21 October 2014
Teemburra Moderate 20 October 2014
North West Region:
Julius High 21 October 2014
Central Queensland Region:
Fairbairn Low 21 October 2014
Callide Moderate 20 October 2014
Wide Bay-Burnett Region:
Fred Haigh Moderate 20 October 2014
Cania Low 8 October 2014
Paradise Low 7 October 2014
Wuruma Low 7 October 2014
Boondooma Low 15 October 2014
Bjelke-Petersen Moderate 21 October 2014
South West Region:
Beardmore Low 21 October 2014
Coolmunda Low 13 October 2014
Leslie Low 20 October 2014
BGA status levels are an indication of the risk. For example, if the level is high, there is a higher chance that the average person will suffer some form of irritation. Moderate levels are less likely to cause problems, however a risk is still present. Low levels are unlikely to cause health problems, however some people may be more sensitive than others.Sorry, only registered users can see this content. Please Login or Register.
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