Toxic algae risk reduced following recent rain

Toxic algae risk reduced following recent rain

Significant rain over the past week is likely to have removed most of the blue-green algal mats from the Hutt River, and the high risk warning that was in place from Birchville to the river mouth has now been removed.

However, a medium risk warning will remain as the algal mats may rapidly re-establish if dry, warm conditions return. A medium risk sign means users can still swim or walk their dogs but should check first for any algal mats.

Medium risk warning signs will also remain in place in the Akatarawa River near the Hutt River confluence and in the Waikanae River at Jim Cooke Park. In other rivers in the region the risk to river users from toxic algal mats is currently low.

General advice from health agencies

Rivers users, particularly those with dogs, or those drawing water from the river for stock/human consumption, should be on the look out for exposed or easily accessible algal mats (usually dark green/black in colour) both on the riverbanks and/or ‘floating’ on the surface of shallow areas and rocks in the rivers, and avoid any contact with them.

Visit www.gw.govt.nz/toxic-algae for further information on toxic algae If you see any exposed or easily accessible algal mats, contact Greater Wellington on P 04 384 5708, or an environmental health officer at your local council.

ENDS

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