1 April 2019

Health warning removed for algal bloom on the Selwyn/Waikirikiri River at Glentunnel

Canterbury District Health Board’s Community and Public Health unit has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued along the Selwyn/Waikirikiri River at Glentunnel. This was issued on 24 January 2019.

Recent cyanobacteria monitoring of the water at the Selwyn/Waikirikiri River at Glentunnel has shown the coverage of potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river has decreased and is now below the levels that are of concern to public health.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Ramon Pink says “Environment Canterbury’s monitoring season has finished and will not resume until November 2020 therefore the public is advised to check rivers they use for signs of cyanobacteria prior to entering them.” Facts about cyanobateria: • Appears as dark brown/black mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.

• The algae occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer months.

• It often has a strong musty smell and algal toxin concentrations can vary over short periods with changing environmental conditions.

• Although high river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure to toxins.

• If a health warning is in place avoid contact with the water.

• Although district or city councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/ dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river cautiously.

For further information visit: LAWA - Can I swim here? or CDHB - Recreational Water.

For more information on Mahinga kai visit: Mahinga Kai.

ENDS

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