Health warning lifted for Ashley and Kahutara rivers

MEDIA RELEASE

January 21, 2015

Health warning lifted for Ashley and Kahutara rivers

The Community and Public Health division of the Canterbury District Health Board has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued at Ashley River near SH1 and Kahutara River near Peketa (SH1).

Recent water testing at the Ashley and Kahutara River has shown the quantity of potentially toxic blue-green algae mats (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river have decreased and concentrations are now below the levels that are of concern to public health.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey says Environment Canterbury’s sampling of these Rivers will continue throughout the summer.

“The public will be informed if testing shows that the quantity of mats have increased and there is a risk to public health again,” Dr Humphrey says.

Facts about cyanobacteria:

• Appears as dark brown/black mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.

• The algae occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer months.

• It often has a strong musty smell and algal toxin concentrations can vary over short periods with changing environmental conditions.

• Although high river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure to toxins.

• If a health warning is in place avoid contact with the water.

• Although district or city councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/ dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river cautiously.

For further information visit http://ecan.govt.nz/services/online-services/monitoring/swimming-water-quality/Pages/river-warnings.aspx

Or contact Community and Public Health on (03) 364 1777.

ENDS

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