A HIGH-ALERT for Blue-green algae has been issued for an area of the Namoi River, downstream of Keepit Dam.
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Water NSW implemented the red alert on Friday afternoon and is advising people not to swim in the affected water, or participate in any recreational activities which may lead to coming in direct contact with water.
Stock and domestic water users are also being urged to find an alternative water source.
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Livestock owners are advised to continue to check their water supplies for blue-green algae and to remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected.
A green alert is in pace for Keepit Dam and users should use caution and be on the lookout for algae scums.
If scums become visible, people should avoid contact with water.
Blue-green algae usually appears as green paint-like scums on the water, near the edges, or as greenish clumps throughout the water.
It makes the water appear dirty, green or discoloured and generally has a strong musty or earthy odour.
Anglers are also being urged to thoroughly wash any fish they catch and dispose of any internal organs before consumption.
However, Water NSW is advising anglers to not eat any mussels or crayfish caught in the affected area.
A Water NSW spokesperson said regular tests were being done to monitor the water quality.
"It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels," the spokesperson said.
"Regular monitoring will continue, and the alert will be lifted as soon as the high levels of algae dissipate.
"People who believe they may have been affected by blue-green algae are advised to seek medical advice."
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
