Algae at Toolondo

Gwmwater has issued a blue-green algae warning for Lake Toolondo, south of Horsham.

It is urging the public to avoid direct contact with water in the lake after monitoring revealed blue-green algae above levels considered safe for recreational use.

The corporation has erected warning signs at major recreational areas around the lake.

Lake Toolondo, consistently subject of a major community campaign for a greater recreational water allocation, has been popular with anglers and yabbying enthusiasts throughout summer.

Gwmwater advises that people can continue to boat, sightsee and take part in other activities at the lake that do not involve direct water contact.

It recommends people who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean water, to avoid using affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering and stresses that boiling the affected water did not make it safe to use.

Blue-green algae occurs naturally and can be dangerous to humans and animals. Characteristic signs of blue-algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.

Gwmwater is unable predict how long the algae will remain at high levels within the lake and will regularly monitor the lake water and keep the community informed through the media.