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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy Date: 12 January 2009 BLUE-GREEN ALGAL ALERT WARNING LIFTED FOR PATERSON RIVER - DOWNSTREAM OF LOSTOCK DAM The blue-green algae warning for the Paterson River downstream of Lostock Dam to Gresford, has now been lifted by the Hunter Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committee.
Brian Dodd, spokesperson for the Hunter Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committee, today announced that algae numbers have been at low levels for two consecutive weeks and public warnings could now be lifted.
“Algal numbers can change dramatically with variations in weather or river conditions, so it is still prudent for people to avoid water where algae can be seen or if there is a strong odour,” Mr Dodd said.
“Blue-green algae usually appear as green paint-like scums on the water, near the edges, or as greenish clumps throughout the water.
“It makes the water appear dirty, green or discoloured and generally has a strong musty or earthy odour.”
The Hunter Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committee will further advise the public if the situation changes.
The public can check on the current status of algal warnings at any time by phoning the algal information line and following the prompts to the Hunter RACC 1800 999 457.
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