PUBLIC NOTICE | BLUE-GREEN ALGAE ALERT - COMPANY DAM
Published on 26 October 2023
PUBLIC NOTICE(PDF, 297KB) | WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCIL
BLUE-GREEN ALGAE ALERT IN COMPANY DAM
Weddin Shire Council would like to advise residents and visitors to our Shire, to avoid any recreational uses of Company Dam until further notice due to the presence of blue-green algae in the Dam’s water.
Council recently tested the sample water of Company Dam to confirm the blue-green algae contamination. After analysing the lab test result, WaterNSW has triggered recreational Red alert level in the Dam’s water. Therefore recreational restrictions are advised to be placed for the water users. Recreational users of this area are advised to follow the warning signage visible in this area.
What are blue-green algae?
Algae are a natural feature of aquatic environments. While most algae are harmless, some types of cyanobacteria are not. Although commonly referred to as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria are actually photosynthetic bacteria that live in water. Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that can pose risk to livestock and cause public health issues for humans. 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 odour.
The only way to tell if algae are harmful is to take a sample and analyse it in a laboratory.
How can blue green algae affect you?
Skin and eye irritation is a common reaction. At stronger concentrations nerve and liver toxins may be present. Some people are more likely than others to suffer as a result of contact with blue green algae. Anyone who is aware that they are acutely allergic to blue green algae should avoid contact with the waters of Company Dam until any future changes.
For more information, please contact Council’s Environmental Services team on (02) 6343 1212.
(PDF, 284KB)
Luke Sheehan
DIRECTOR
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
26 OCTOBER 2023
(PDF, 284KB)