Swimmers, fishers and other recreational water users are being advised to avoid the Murrumbidgee River near Hay Weir Buoy following an outbreak of blue-green algae.
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As of Wednesday WaterNSW has declared a red alert level warning for an outbreak of blue-green algae at the popular fishing and tourism spot.
The alert at Hay Weir Buoy comes days after red alerts were issued for two other popular fishing and swimming spots on the Murrumbidgee, in Maude and Redbank.
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Blue-green algae usually appear as green paint-like scums on the water, near the edges, or as greenish clumps making the water appear dirty, green or discolored and generally has a strong musty or earthy odor.
Species of blue green blue-green algae are potentially toxic and may cause gastroenteritis in humans if consumed and skin and eye irritations after contact.
Boiling the water does not remove algal toxins.
WaterNSW is advising residents not to enter the water, drink untreated water or bathe in water drawn from the area while this Red Alert level warning is in place.
In the fishing side of things, residents are being advised not eat mussels or crayfish collected from affected spots at Hay Weir Buoy, Maude and Redbank.
Any fish caught from these areas should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of appropriately before being consumed.
Livestock owners are also being 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.
A statement released by WaterNSW said that it is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels in areas issued with a red alert warning, as the algae can reproduce quickly in favorable conditions where there is still or slow-flowing water, abundant sunlight and sufficient levels of nutrients.
According to Water NSW regular monitoring of the affected spots will continue, and the alert will be lifted as soon as the high levels of algae dissipate.
Meanwhile people who believe they may have been affected by blue-green algae are advised to seek medical advice.
Updates and information about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by calling 1800 999 457 or visiting – www.waternsw.com.au/water.
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