A red alert has been issued by WaterNSW for Yanga Lake due to levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae being present in the lake which is part of the Yanga National Park.
Yanga National Park staff reported an algal scum at Regatta Beach, which has resulted in a red alert advisory warning being issued after testing was done.
The red alert warning indicates that people should not come into contact with the affected waterway, with the algae not only posing a threat to humans but also livestock and pets.
Blue-green algae may cause gastroenteritis in humans if consumed, as well as causing irritations to both the skin and eyes if they come into contact with the blue-green algae.
Livestock owners are reminded to continue to check stock water supplies, and remove their stock from foreshores where they suspect blue-green algae may be present.
The blue-green algae can be identified by looking for green paint like scrums on the water, with it usually clumping up near the edges of the waterway.
The alert also means that people should not consume any fish, mussels or crayfish which has been taken from the red alert area, without thorough cleaning first to eliminate any contaminated material.
People who believe that they may be affected are advised to seek medical attention, with no possible prediction available for how long the blue-green algae will be present for at Yanga Lake.
