Toxic algae warning over lake activities

Warnings are in place around Kaikoura's Lake Rotorua due to a bloom of the potentially toxic algae microcystis and anabaena which has found in the lake.

Kaikoura District Council environmental health officer David Shovel said the presence of this toxic bloom would affect recreational use of the lake.

Notices and warning signs would hopefully be put in place this week with regard to precautions in terms of activity on the lake and in particular with regard to dogs accessing the lake.

Environment Canterbury has provided the following advice regarding health warnings for lakes with algal blooms such as the one found in Lake Rotorua:

Never swim or take part in any activity that may result in accidental consumption or exposure to water affected by algal blooms if a health warning is in place for that area, even if there are no visible signs of a bloom.

Do not let stock or dogs swim or drink from the water. If a health warning is in place, it means cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are present in large numbers in that bay or lake.

Cyanobacteria are capable of producing toxins that are harmful to humans and animals if swallowed or if exposed to skin (such as may occur when swimming, skiing or kayaking etc).

- © Fairfax NZ News

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