Blue-Green Algae Alerts – Amber for Curlwaa and Merbein

13 December 2024

Amber Alerts are now in place for Curlwaa and Merbein.

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.

A Green Alert continues for Buronga.

A Green Alert indicates that blue-green algae only occur naturally at low numbers. At these concentrations, algae would not normally be visible, however some species may affect taste and odour of water even at low numbers and does not pose any problems for recreational, stock or household use.

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.