Blue-Green Algae Alerts – Amber for Curlwaa, Green for Buronga & Merbein

15 November 2024

An Amber Alert is now in place for 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.

Green Alerts are now in place for Buronga and Merbein.

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