Mannus Lake and Creek Toxic Algae Warning

Published on 05 January 2018

Residents are advised to exercise caution and take preventative action on and around the Mannus Lake and Creek with sightings of what may be toxic algae in the water.

Warm conditions and recent rainfall have created perfect algae bloom conditions in the lake and creek and Council is urging households to cease pumping water from Mannus Creek into dams and tanks until the algae type can be identified and confirmed non-toxic.

General Manager Matthew Hyde said Council is seeking advice from Water NSW however due to the festive holiday shut down it may take a while before we know more.

“Water NSW are responsible for algae coordinators and information regarding alerts, but until they are back from leave Council is urging local residents to be vigilant and cease using the creek water”, Mr Hyde said.

Council recommends the following:

-Don't pump water from Mannus Creek into dams or tanks until the algae type is tested & confirmed as non-toxic for household & stock water. Use existing water supply where you can.

- Keep an eye on the creek to see when it passes & communicate with your local Council office on the issue

- Immediately report to Council & NSW Health Murrumbidgee Public Health Unit of any illness or rashes in people 1300 066 055, and contact Murray Local Land Services on 02 6948 9197 to report sick or dead stock.

- Read up on information about algae for what to do for your family & stock:

NSW Health has a factsheet online with information about water quality on farms - see pages 25-29 for information. www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/NSW-drinking-water-monitoring-program.aspx

NSW Department of Primary Industries also have more information online about water quality and testing at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/irrigation/quality