Greater Shepparton City Council is issuing a warning to the public to avoid direct contact with water in Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands after detecting high levels of blue-green algae.
Warning signs will be positioned at major recreational areas around the wetlands and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present. Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands will not be closed to the public.
Council recommends water users from Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands seek an alternative water supply. You can still sightsee and enjoy other activities at Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands that do not involve direct contact with the water.
Council recommends:
- People and pets do not enter the water.
- People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
- Seeking an alternative water supply for pets.
- Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
- Additional information on blue green algae can be found at Goulburn-Murray Water's blue-green algae webpage (g-mwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert/) to be informed of the risks.
- Blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies. They contain toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, sore eyes, ears and nose, or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.
- It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels.
- Council is continuing to monitor the situation at Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands.
- The water in Parkside Gardens Estate Wetlands not suitable for human or animal consumption or contact. This includes showering, bathing, washing, cooking, ice making, drinking or any recreational activity in or on the water.
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