24 January 2008
BLUE GREEN ALGAE WARNING: JACKSONS CREEK
Melbourne Water has advised residents to avoid contact with Jacksons Creek in the Gisborne area, following the detection of blue green algae. Jacksons Creek is a major tributary of the Maribyrnong River.
Melbourne Water General Manager Waterways, Chris Chesterfield, said there were several forms of blue green algae and the species currently present in Jacksons Creek could be harmful to animals or humans.
"Residents should avoid contact with the water and make sure that it does not come into contact with their skin or eyes.
"Pet owners are advised to take similar precautions and keep their animals from entering the water or from drinking it." Mr Chesterfield said.
Mr Chesterfield said algal blooms were not uncommon on the Maribyrnong River during summer, with hot and dry conditions, low river flows and the accumulation of nutrients in the creek all contributing factors.
"We have had several blooms in the River over the last few years. Usually these occur further downstream around Keilor. This is the first time we have experienced a bloom this far upstream."
Mr Chesterfield said this bloom underlined the importance of continuing works to protect and improve the health of the river.
The Maribyrnong catchment, which includes Jacksons Creek, covers an area of approximately 1430 square kilometres with around, 80 per cent of the catchment being agricultural and 10 per cent urban. As a result, natural vegetation has been retained in only around 10 per cent of the catchment.
Mr Chesterfield said Melbourne Water, along with other key agencies were investing heavily in plans and works to protect and improve the health of local rivers and creeks, as well as meeting the challenges of drought and climate change.
"Melbourne Water will be sampling the water regularly and keeping a close watch on the problem."
Warning signs are being erected along the river to advise people of the potential hazards.
Mr Chesterfield thanked Western Water and the Macedon Ranges Shire for their support in responding to this situation.