Testing underway at swim hotspots
Look before you leap into the water this summer is the message from Waikato Regional Council as they commence their monitoring programme at some popular lake and river swimming spots in the rohe.
Over four months, from the beginning of December to the end of March, the council checks for signs of E. coli, as well as cyanobacteria (the micro-organism that causes potentially toxic algal blooms), both of which can affect human health.
If significant bacteria are found a health warning will be issued to the public by the relevant local health board – either Waikato District Health Board or Toi Te Ora Public Health. Monitoring results and warnings are also published on the LAWA website: Direct exposure to algal blooms can cause health effects such as skin rashes and stomach upsets. Hayfever and asthma may also worsen.
Waikato Regional Council environmental monitoring manager Dr Ed Brown said it’s not possible for the council to monitor all locations where people are in the water.
‘‘So it’s always safest that you check the water before you get in. Algal hotspots include small lakes and sidearms of the hydro-lakes where water can be stagnant and the water temperatures are higher than for flowing rivers,’’ Brown said.
‘‘These factors can sometimes support the rapid growth of algae, resulting in very visible algal blooms, sometimes described as ‘pea soup’.’’
He said test results should be used for general guidance only.
‘‘Conditions can change between tests, and cyanobacteria and toxins are not evenly spread through lakes, so may be concentrated in some areas by wind and water movements. That means even where monitoring does occur it is important to check the water before you get in.
‘‘You should also avoid swimming in rivers, streams and harbours for 48 hours after heavy rainfall events. That’s because the water is likely to be contaminated with animal faeces from rural and urban runoff, that may cause a tummy bug, sore throat or skin infection. If the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, swim or play somewhere else,’’ he said.