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Identifying algal blooms

Freshwater blue-green algal blooms can be recognised by a discolouration of the water, by scum on the water surface, or by an earthy or musty odour coming from the water. However, toxic algae can only be positively identified by trained personnel. If you suspect that there is a blue-green algal bloom in a water body, you should contact either the local council or the management authority for the water body or your local RACC. RACCs should be alerted of any high blue-green algae counts

A guide to identifying potential blue-green algae blooms visually (without a microscope) is available. For a copy of What Scum is That? Algal blooms and other prolific plant growths send an email to simon.mitrovic@dnr.nsw.gov.au. Information on identifying algal blooms is also available on the web at Key to Blooms.

Humans and animals should be prevented from drinking or swimming in a water body which is suspected of having an algal bloom.

The process for reporting algal blooms and the actions that should be taken by the various agencies are outlined in Regional Contingency Plans available from the RACC Secretariat in your area.