RIVER WARNING LIFTED

Cust River, near Skewbridge Rd, is deemed safe to use again following an outbreak of potentially toxic algae. The Canterbury District Health Board lifted the health warning issued in February which advised people, in particular dog-owners, to avoid the river. The algae, benthic cyanobacteria, occurred naturally but increased rapidly during warmer months. Levels of the toxic algae had now decreased and were back below the levels that were of concern to public health. CDHB medical officer of health Dr Alistair Humphrey said Environment Canterbury’s routine monitoring of Canterbury rivers and lakes had been completed for the season, and would resume again next summer when there would be an increased likelihood of cyanobacteria growth. Warnings remain in place for the Selwyn/ Waikirikiri River at Whitecliffs Domain and Glentunnel, Lake Pegasus, Lake Forsyth, Hurunui River at State Highway 7 and Lake Ellesmere.