Mannus Lake and Creek Algae Warning - Update

Published on 09 January 2018

Investigations are continuing into the visible algae growth and water discolouration in Mannus Lake and downstream Mannus Creek. 

Algal blooms naturally occur when there is a combination of suitable environmental conditions including nutrients, temperature, light, turbidity and stable conditions. Recent weather events have provided favourable conditions for algae growth.

Director of Strategy, Community and Development Mr Gus Cox said Council is acutely concerned about the outbreak and is liaising closely with the Murray and Lower Darling Algal Coordinator for Water NSW to ensure the appropriate steps are followed in dealing with this matter. 

“The first step is to identify the algae type. Water samples result are due back by close of business Thursday to identify the type of algae and if it is toxic or has the potential to become toxic. Based on these results, Council will take appropriate action as directed by the Murray and Lower Darling Algal Coordinator”, Mr Cox said.

Council has managed Mannus Lake in accordance with requirements set down by the NSW Office of Water and the Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) since the commissioning of the new lake in December 2014.

The NSW Office of Water has imposed a licence condition regarding algae which requires Council to undertake water sampling and testing if algae is visually observed. If the analysis reveals toxic levels, Council must erect appropriate warning signs and provide the NSW Office of Water with a copy of water testing results. 

“Until these results are obtained and assessed, residents are advised to exercise caution and take preventative action, where possible”. Mr Cox said.

“It is unfortunate that this event has occurred and Council are liaising with all relevant government departments to ensure the immediate risk to public health is managed”.

Therefore Council recommends the following:

• Don't pump water from Mannus Creek for stock and domestic use until the algae type is tested & confirmed as non-toxic.
• Immediately report any illness or skin irritation to the NSW Health (Murrumbidgee) Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055, and
• Contact Murray Local Land Services on 02 6948 9197 to report livestock sickness.

Council staff are attempting to contact all landholders who have been directly affected by the algae bloom. For further information, please contact Council’s Director of Strategy, Community and Development Mr Gus Cox on 6948 9116 or [email protected].