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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy Date: 26 March 2009 BLUE GREEN ALGAE LEVELS DECLINE AT CHAFFEY AND SPLIT ROCK DAMS
The Barwon Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today announced that the previously issued Red Level Algal Warning (high alert) at Chaffey and Split Rock Dams has been downgraded to an 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 Split Rock and Chaffey Dams are safe for fishing and water sports people are advised not to drink untreated or boiled water from these dams due to the risk of stomach upsets.
Currently Copeton Dam will 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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