Blue green algae bloom – Red Alert warning for Lake Cullulleraine

Lower Murray Water (LMW) has today issued a red alert warning for Blue Green Algae (BGA)
in Lake Cullulleraine in the Millewa region.

LMW Managing Director, Paul Northey said new results have indicated increased levels of
BGA in the Lake.

“Local residents and visitors should be aware that high levels of potentially toxic blue green
algae species in the Lake have returned.”

“Levels have been moving up and down on a weekly basis which has meant that we have
again had to issue advice to the community, customers and partner agencies about the BGA.

The high levels seem to be linked to the hot and humid weather we have been experiencing”
he said.

The situation is being closely monitored, and the following precautions are recommended:

• People and pets should avoid contact with the water.
• People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin
  immediately in clean cold water.
• Untreated water should never be used for human consumption (e.g. drinking, cooking,
  showering, bathing, washing).
• Boiling the affected water will not make it safe to use. Blue-green algae release toxins
  into the water when heated.
• Seek an alternative water supply for stock and pets where possible.
• Water can be used on gardens, however water should not be sprayed on vegetables
  and fruit.
• Stock should be kept away from recently irrigated areas for at least 7 days.

Potentially, toxic blue-green algae may cause gastroenteritis if consumed, while contact can
cause skin and eye irritations. For any health issues experienced after contact with BGA
affected water, please seek medical advice.

Blue-green algae are a natural part of the environment and can multiply rapidly in lakes
especially when there’s plenty of sunlight and nutrients in the water.