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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy

Date: 6 March 2009


BLUE GREEN ALGAE DECLINE AT KEEPIT DAM

The Barwon Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today announced that the previously issued Red Level Algal Warning (high alert) at Keepit Dam, near Gunnedah has been downgraded to Amber Level (medium alert).

Monitoring conducted by the Department of Water and Energy and State Water Corporation 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.

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.

State Water and the Department of Water and Energy 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 Department’s freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457.


 

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