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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy Date: 18 March 2009 BLUE GREEN ALGAE LEVELS DECLINE AT PINDARI DAM The Barwon Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today announced that the previously issued Red Level Algal Warning (high alert) at Pindari Dam 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.
Currently, Split Rock, Copeton and Chaffey Dams all remain in the red alert range for recreational use. However, it is hoped that with the cooler temperatures, blue-green algae concentrations will continue to decline to safe levels over the coming weeks.
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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