Blue Green Algae Warning for Lake Nagambie

Thursday, 23 May, 2019

Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is warning customers and the public to avoid direct contact with water in the entire Nagambie Lakes system after monitoring detected high levels of blue-green algae.

Warning signs will be positioned at major recreational areas around the Nagambie Lakes and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present. The Nagambie Lakes will not be closed to the public.

You can still sightsee and enjoy other activities at the Nagambie Lakes and Goulburn Weir that do not involve direct contact with the water.

Blue-green algae occur naturally in waterbodies and can present a risk to the health of humans and animals.

The algae detected may cause gastroenteritis if ingested. Characteristic signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.

GMW recommends:

People and pets avoid contact with the water. People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water. Seeking an alternative water supply for stock and pets where possible. Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes. Reading GMW’s fact sheet and other information on blue green algae at GMW’s blue-green algae webpage (https://www.g-mwater.com.au/news/bga) to be informed of the risks

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