Unseasonably warm weather brings heightened risk of algal blooms

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Unseasonably warm weather brings heightened risk of algal blooms

 
15 Oct 2013 - 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 Manager, Water Planning and Environment, Gordon Delaney said BGA was commonly found in most large water storages across Queensland each year 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 in varying volumes 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 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 catch.

"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 updates BGA hazard signs at all its dam sites so people visiting the dams for recreational swimming, skiing, fishing or camping activities are informed of any potential risks.

"The risk of encountering BGA blooms will be listed as a low, moderate or high and we ask that the public read the signs and take the necessary precautions when visiting our dams," he said.

For the latest BGA hazard advisories at SunWater dams, visit the Water Storage Level section of sunwater.com.au or call 13 15 89.


Beardmore Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 2 October 2013


Bjelke-Petersen Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 23 September 2013


Boondooma Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 2 October 2013


Burdekin Falls Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Callide Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Cania Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 23 September 2013


Coolmunda Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 1 October 2013


Eungella Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 22 September 2013


Fairbairn Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 1 October 2013


Fred Haigh Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Julius Dam
 BGA Status: High
 Sample Date: 1 October 2013


Kinchant Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Leslie Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Paradise Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Peter Faust Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Teemburra Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013


Tinaroo Falls Dam
 BGA Status: Moderate
 Sample Date: 1 October 2013


Wuruma Dam
 BGA Status: Low
 Sample Date: 30 September 2013