Algae red alert: Chaffey Dam declared safe for swimming by Water NSW

Water NSW confirmed water samples taken by the authority have revealed levels of toxic blue-green algae have dropped below the red alert warning threshold in Chaffey Dam.

The dam has been on red alert - the highest level - on and off since mid-December. Water NSW first put an algae red alert on Chaffey Dam in December last year. It was taken off in February. Just days later the water authority placed another red alert warning on the dam.

The alert meant a recommendation that swimmers, fishers and boaters not take to the water, for fear of toxic algae blooms.

Blue-green algae occurs naturally but can generate a range of toxins, including neurotoxins, that can cause health problems. It looks like clumps of greenish paint-like scum on the water, or near the edges of a dam.

The dam remained open to campers, swimmers, fishers and boaters.

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Water NSW urged people who believe they may have been affected by blue-green algae to seek medical advice.

Copeton Dam, Pindari Dam and Malpas Dam all have current blue-green algae red alerts in place.

Chaffey Dam is now at amber alert level, and the water is still considered unpotable and unsuitable for stock. Water users should still avoid the dam where there are signs of algae.

The announcement follows two consecutive negative test results of water taken from the dam.

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