Blue-Green Algae Alert – Red for Merbein, Amber for Buronga and Curlwaa

27 May 2025

WaterNSW has issued a Red Alert warning for high levels of taste and odour causing blue-green algae for the Murray River at Merbein.

The Red Alert warning applies only to untreated water at the identified location and will remain in place until monitoring and test results confirm that the risk is sufficiently diminished. People should avoid consuming untreated water from this waterbody and prevent pets and livestock from drinking this water.

People should avoid recreational activities such as swimming, water skiing, canoeing and any other activity that brings them into contact with this waterbody until the red alert warning is lifted.

Potentially toxic blue-green algae may cause gastroenteritis if consumed, while contact can cause skin and eye irritations. Consumption of water containing algal toxins may cause liver damage and other health problems. Boiling the water does not remove algal toxins.

People who suspect they have been affected by blue-green algae should seek medical advice.

People should not eat mussels or crayfish from red alert warning areas. A precautionary approach to eating fin fish from red alert warning areas is advised. Any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water; the internal organs should not be eaten.  Avoiding fishing during a bloom is the best way to minimise risk.

Updates and information about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by visiting www.waternsw.com.au/algae.

Amber alerts remain for Buronga and Curlwaa

An Amber Alert indicates that blue-green algae may be multiplying, and the water may have a green tinge and musty or organic taste and odour. The water should be considered as unsuitable for potable use and alternative supplies or prior treatment of raw water for domestic purposes should be considered. The water may also be unsuitable for stock watering. Generally suitable for water sports, however people are advised to exercise caution in these areas, as blue-green algal concentrations can rise to red alert levels quickly under warm, calm weather conditions.

Please go to WaterNSW website for more information:
https://www.waternsw.com.au/water-services/water-quality/algae

WMI Customer reminder

Customers are reminded that WMI does not guarantee the supply of water (either quantity or quality) at any time, as it is untreated and directly sourced from the River Murray. It is recommended that customers have water storage capacity of at least two weeks’ stock and garden needs. A water storage tank allows alternate water supply when irrigation water delivery is interrupted or when irrigation water quality has deteriorated. It also allows settling before use.

Landlords are required to inform their tenants of water delivery interruptions or deteriorating quality and assist by providing an alternate water supply.