BGA Information Line 1300 781 806 This service will be updated whenever results from monitoring programs become available, usually fortnightly in the warmer months and monthly in cooler months. If you require further assistance please call the main SRW contact number 1300 139 510.

Blue Green Algae Alert for the Macalister Irrigation District

(last updated 3 May, 2006 11:30am)

Over the past few weeks we have been continuously monitoring Blue Green Algae (BGA) levels in Lake Glenmaggie and areas of the Macalister Irrigation District (MID) where high levels have been detected. However, as SRW cannot practically test and monitor all parts of its water supply network, which is over 600kms in length, a BGA alert has been issued for the District.

Based on specialist advice in relation to the use and management of BGA affected water, we strongly recommend water users implement the following precautions to minimise the risk to human and livestock health.

Domestic and Stock Users

• Stock should not be allowed to access to channels or drains. Stock are at a greater risk of ingesting lethal toxins contained in surface scums if they access this water.
  
• Irrigation water from the Macalister River or any of our irrigation channels should not be used for domestic and stock purposes and should never be used for human consumption.

Irrigation – throughout the Macalister Irrigation District
When irrigating, direct skin contact with the water should be avoided. We recommend use of waterproof protective gloves and clothing. Excessive watering should be avoided and spray irrigation should not occur in high winds where spray drift may occur.

Dairy farmers

• Where irrigating pastures, stock should be restricted from grazing irrigated pasture for a minimum of 7 days following watering.
  
• Stock should be prevented from accessing irrigated pasture if water remains in pools or has not infiltrated into the soil.
  
• Where irrigation water is used for stock feed crops, overhead watering immediately prior to harvesting is not recommended.

Vegetable growers

• Vegetable producers should not undertake overhead watering of leafy vegetables immediately prior to harvesting.
  
• Water contaminated by BGA should not be used in the washing of products for consumption.
  
• Harvested vegetables should be washed thoroughly to remove any BGA cells that may have been deposited on them.

We will continue to monitor our water distribution network for signs of BGA and keep you informed of any changes.

The public is urged to avoid direct contact with channel and river water, especially water discoloured by BGA scums. If you come into direct contact with channel water you should wash immediately in freshwater.

More information

For more information please contact SRW on (03) 5139 3100