Update on Blue-Green Algae in Beardy Waters Weir
Glen Innes Severn Council advises residents that Blue-Green Algae are present in Beardy Waters Weir. Blue-Green Algae are microscopic cells that grow in water and can form scum on the water surface.
A Powdered Activated Carbon treatment is being applied to raw water prior to conventional water treatment, to remove blue-green algal taste and odour forming compounds. Treated water has been tested, and is not considered to pose a health risk. However, anyone who is concerned about health issues should seek medical advice.
People are advised not to use the weir for recreational purposes, or to drink water from the weir because of the risk of eye and skin irritations and stomach upsets. Pet owners are advised to take similar precautions and keep their animals from entering or drinking any water where blue-green algae can be seen, or which has a strong odour. Landholders are advised to remove stock from the water margins.
Council will continue sampling water regularly and closely monitoring the algae. Higher river flows and cooler weather will assist in removing the algae problem.
Contact details
Deputy Director of Engineering Services
Tel: 02 6730 2350
council@gisc.nsw.gov.au
