Photo: Susanna Freymark.
Toonumber Dam is at 100% capacity after recent rain and Water NSW said it is a marked difference from the 10% levels two years ago.
“Water hasn’t spilled in the last couple of years,” a spokesman said.
Despite the water level, Water NSW confirmed the Red Alert warning for blue-green algae remains for the dam. The alert includes Iron Pot Creek downstream of the dam.
Photo taken on Saturday 9 January 2021 by Susanna Freymark.
A Red Alert indicates people should not do recreational activities where they may come in contact with the water – as well as domestic uses including showering and washing.
Contact may pose a threat to livestock and pets.
Blue-green algae usually appear as green paint-like scums on the water near the edges, or as greenish clumps throughout the water. It makes the water appear dirty, green or discoloured and generally has a strong musty or earthy smell.
The species of blue-green algae identified are potentially toxic and cause taste and odour problems. In addition, it may cause gastroenteritis (stomach upsets) in humans if consumed and skin and eye irritations after contact. Boiling does not remove algal toxins.
People are advised not to enter the water, drink untreated water or bathe in water drawn from the affected area in the dam or downstream while this Red Alert is in place. Livestock owners are reminded to continue to check stock water and to remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected.
People should not eat mussels or crayfish from Red Alert areas. Before consumption, any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of appropriately.
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.
Updates and information about blue-green algal blooms and ref alert areas can be got from 1800 999 457 or waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae
This article appeared in the Richmond River Independent, 13 January 2021.
