Advisory of Potential Contamination of Blue Green Algae
Posted on February 15, 2024
15 Feb 2024
The Department of Health (DOH) notified the Northern Midlands Council of a finding of Blue-green Algae in the Macquarie River, prompting the placement of warning signs at Longford’s Recreational Water sites. Tests are underway by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of Health will assess if it is safe for primary contact.
Additionally, property owners drawing water downstream are being informed of potential unfitness for human consumption. The Department of Health advises following the Recreational Water Quality Guidelines serving as benchmarks for water safety in recreational areas.
The signage will only be removed once the Council has received confirmation that the recreational body of water is suitable for intended use by Under the Recreational Water Quality Guidelines by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in conjunction with Department of Health.
The following actions have been taken by Council:
- signs have been erected at the Recreational Water site in Longford,
- Mill Dam
- Longford Boat Ramp
- Council is notifying the property owners who draw water from the river downstream that it may be unfit for human consumption
5 March 2024
Update: Cautionary advisory still in effect.