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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Department of Water and Energy Date: 17 December 2008 BLUE-GREEN ALGAL ALERT FOR LAKE AINSWORTH The North Coast Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today issued a blue green algae “red alert” for Lake Ainsworth situated near Lennox Head. Committee spokesperson Mr Brian Dodd said blue-green algae have bloomed in Lake Ainsworth and the latest information indicates that the algae levels have increased since last weeks sampling. "Accordingly the Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committee, in conjunction with Ballina Council, wish to advise people who use Lake Ainsworth for recreation to be aware of the situation." Warning signs have been positioned around the Lake and will remain until the bloom subsides. Algae may be visible on the water surface or at the edge as a green scum but people should be aware that should the surface of the Lake be disturbed by wind the algae may be difficult to see. "It is important for people to know that contact with the effected water could result in skin rashes, eye and/or ear irritations. Ingesting the water can lead to diarrhoea and long term health problems. Asthma attacks can also be brought on by contact with blue-green algae." All pets should be kept out of the water as the potential harmful effects of blue-green algae can cause death in animals. "We would also like to remind people that domestic pets are prohibited to be in the waters of Lake Ainsworth,” Mr Dodd said. Ballina Council is regularly monitoring the situation and asks that the public heed the warning signs put up by Council. The current status of the lake is updated on Councils web site, www.ballina.nsw.gov.au as information comes to hand. The latest status of blue-green algae alerts can be obtained from the Department of Water and Energy’s freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457. Additional information regarding blue-green algae is available on the Department of Water and Energy website – www.dwe.nsw.gov.au
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