Blue-green algae warning downgraded at Windamere Dam

[Member]



Central West Regional Algal Coordinating Committee - NSW Office of Water
9 November 2012
Blue-green algae warning downgraded at Windamere Dam

The Central West Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today announced that the previously issued red level algal warning (high alert) for Windamere Dam, in the Macquarie catchment, has been downgraded to amber level (medium alert).

Monitoring conducted by the NSW Office of Water has shown that concentrations of blue-green algae have declined to medium levels prompting the lifting of the red alert.
While medium algae levels are still in place people are advised not to drink untreated or boiled water due to the risk of stomach upsets. Boiling the water does not inactivate algal toxins.

The water may also be unsuitable for stock watering.
Generally suitable for water sports, however people should use personal discretion at all times before entering a water body and be aware that algal blooms can develop in a 24 hour period The NSW Office of Water and State Water Corporation will continue routine water quality monitoring and advise any change as new results are received.

Information updates about the status of blue-green algae can be obtained from the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457