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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy Date: 16 March 2009 BLUE-GREEN ALGAE LEVELS RISE IN HUME DAM The Murray Regional Algal Coordinating Committee (RACC) today issued a Red Alert Level warning for blue-green algae for the Hume Dam. Continued monitoring by the NSW Department of Water and Energy has detected high numbers of potentially toxic blue-green algae at all sampling sites across the dam. This follows a recent bloom at Ebden Reserve. Murray RACC Chairman Richard Scott said sampling has revealed that blue-green algae is now widespread throughout the reservoir. Town water supply for both Albury City and Wodonga is being treated and is safe for human consumption. “This Red Level Warning indicates that waters are unsuitable for recreational use or primary contact by domestic users and may also pose a threat to livestock. Residents are advised to avoid contact with the raw water supply,” Mr Scott said. The species of blue-green algae identified are potentially toxic and may cause gastroenteritis in humans if consumed and skin and eye irritations after contact. Boiling the water does not inactivate algal toxins. People are advised not to enter the water, and are further advised not to drink untreated water or bathe in water drawn from the river whilst this Red Level Warning is in place. Livestock owners are reminded to continue to check stock water supplies for blue-green algae and to remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected. People should not eat mussels or crayfish from Red Level Warning areas. Any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of before consumption. Information updates about blue-green algae blooms and Red Level Warning areas can be obtained from the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457.
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