G-MW says warning signs will be positioned at formal recreational areas around the lake and remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present.
Lake Boga will remain open to the public for any activities that do not involve direct contact with the water while the warning is in place.
G-MW Water Quality Coordinator Bianca Atley asked people to take care around the water.
“Blue-green algae occur naturally in water bodies but contain toxins harmful to humans and animals,” she said.
“Contact with it can cause rashes; sore eyes, ears, and nose; or, if swallowed, nausea or vomiting. It is therefore important for people boating or enjoying activities near the water to take extra precautions.”
G-MW recommends:
- People and pets avoid contact with the water;
- Those who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water;
- Seeking an alternative water supply for stock and pets where possible;
- Not using affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels. Ms Atley said it was important to keep in mind that blue-green algae are natural, unpredictable and their levels can change very quickly.
“There is no one factor that G-MW can pinpoint as the cause of high levels of blue-green algae at one of its storages or waterways including Lake Boga,” she said.
Ms Atley said G-MW recognised the importance of its waterways and storages as recreational areas for communities including for water sports, but that it was crucial to prioritise visitor safety when thinking about access to its waterways and storages for recreational purposes.
People can stay up-to-date with blue-green algae warnings by phoning 1800 013 357 and selecting the option for blue-green algae information, or by visiting the G-MW website at www.gmwater.com.au/news/bga
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