News from Greater Wellington Regional Council
Red alert level warnings are in place for Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River at Silverstream due to high levels of toxic algae.
People are advised not to swim or let their dogs near the water at the Silverstream area of Te Awa Kairangi. Dog walkers should ensure their dogs do not scavenge anything from the riverbanks that may be contaminated.
The council’s senior advisor for Integration and Insights Penny Fairbrother says toxic algae can produce neurotoxins that act much like snake venom does. These toxins can be extremely harmful to humans and lethal to dogs if ingested.
“We strongly advise that people avoid using the stretch of Te Awa Kairangi at Silverstream and keep all dogs and children away from the river’s edge,” Fairbrother says. “Even a small amount of toxic algae, the size of a 50-cent piece, can be enough to kill a dog.
“Dog owners who think their animals have swallowed toxic algae, or shows signs of lethargy, muscle tremors, fast breathing, paralysis or convulsions, should go to the nearest vet immediately.”
People who have been in contact with toxic algae and are feeling unwell, should see a doctor or ring Healthline on 0800 611 116.
The community is advised to check the LAWA website for toxic algae warnings and alerts before visiting rivers.
“Toxic algal blooms form naturally when temperatures increase, and calm weather conditions provide a stable growing environment.” says Fairbrother. “It’s important everyone knows how to spot toxic algae to keep their pets and whānau safe.”
“Toxic algae grows on rocks in the riverbed and forms leathery, dark green or black mats, which can break off and accumulate at the river’s edge. As the algal mats dry out, they can become light brown colour and have a distinctive deep earthy or musty smell.”
News from Greater Wellington Regional Council – 14 March
People should avoid contact with the water at Lake Wairarapa Moana, where red alert level warnings are in place, due to a high concentration of cyanobacteria (toxic algae) found in the lake.
In lakes, toxic algae grow in a free-floating (also called planktonic) form which can cause the water to become murky or cloudy or give it a bright green ‘pea soup’ appearance.
Lake Wairarapa Moana cyanobacteria (Photo/Supplied)
Greater Wellington’s senior advisor for Integration and Insights, Penny Fairbrother says people should also look out for bright green scum which collects at the water’s edge.
“We’re advising that people avoid contact with the water and dogs should be on a leash and kept away from the water. Do not let them drink lake water or fetch sticks found near the water,” says Fairbrother.
“These high concentration levels have the potential to cause illness for both people and animals if the water is swallowed or breathed in, or if there is direct contact with the skin. The risk is highest for children, pregnant people and the elderly.”
“Other safety measures should be taken, including not collecting or eating shellfish from the lake. Fish caught from the lake should be gutted and cleaned properly and the guts safely disposed of so animals cannot scavenge them.”
If exposed to the algae, people are advised to call Healthline (0800 611 116), especially if experiencing symptoms such as nausea, skin irritation, breathing difficulties or numbness around the mouth and/or fingertips.
Dogs showing signs of lethargy, excessive panting, tremors or seizures should be taken to the vet immediately.
Greater Wellington will continue weekly sampling and testing at the lake while levels remain high.
To learn more about toxic algae in lakes, visit: LAWA – Algae and Cyanobacteria in Lakes
To check for toxic algae alerts in rivers in the Wellington region, visit: Land, Air, Water Aotearoa
Content Sourced from scoop.co.nz
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