More toxic algae found in Mataura

More toxic algae has been found in the Mataura River, prompting Environment Southland to warn people not to have contact with the river, or to take their dogs near it.

On Thursday, the regional council issued a press release saying its latest monitoring had found elevated levels of the toxic algae benthic cyanobacteria in the Mataura River.

The latest discovery is near the Mataura Bridge, in Mataura, and this follows confirmations that toxic algae is present at the Riversdale Bridge and Gore areas.

The toxic algae can be recognised at rivers and streams as a green/ brown slime on rocks, or dark brown/black mats at the water’s edge. These algae can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals if swallowed, or through contact with skin. People and animals (dogs in particular) should avoid contact with the Mataura River and be mindful of the potential health risks, until health warnings are removed.

In February, the Clutha District Council reported a dog had died from drinking water from drainage ditches along the flood bank near the Clutha River.

Environment Southland science manager Dr Elaine Moriarty said Environment Southland monitors for toxic algae weekly during summer.

‘‘It’s really important people know what to look for and take a cautious approach to swimming and walking dogs off-lead along rivers as we can’t assess every reach of every river.’’

Toxic algal blooms have plagued many lakes and rivers around the country this year, but this is the first confirmed bloom in Southland this summer.

More information can be found on Environment Southland’s website www.es.govt.nz/toxic-algae.