Algal Blooms
Algal blooms occur in our local waterways. Not all algal blooms are toxic but if in doubt avoid contact and report it so we can do an assessment and manage it accordingly. Exposure to algal blooms and toxins can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting; skin eye or throat irritation and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties. This applies to both people and pets.
Information required when reporting an algal bloom:
- Is the water discoloured? Which colour?
- What is the extent of the bloom?
- Small (area in a river, close to a boat ramp),
- Large (long section of shoreline, section of estuary), or
- Widespread (as far as you can see, and it seems to affect the entire waterbody/shoreline).
- Description of bloom's appearance. Some examples are:
- Green streaks on the water surface
- Pea soup appearance within the water
- Spilled paint appearance on the surface of the water
- Green dots/clumps on or in the water
- Bubbling scum on the surface
- Hairy, silky strands on rocks, plants, or water
- Milky, whitish water.