Algae

WaterNSW is responsible for testing for, and notifying about, blue-green algal blooms in the river systems and storages that we manage.

Algae are a natural feature of aquatic environments. While most algae are harmless, some types of cyanobacteria are not. Although commonly referred to as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria are actually photosynthetic bacteria that live in water. Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that can pose risk to livestock and cause public health issues for humans. The only way to tell if algae are harmful is to take a sample and analyse it in a laboratory.

Blue-green algal blooms can cause waters to be unsafe for recreation in both freshwater and marine water environments. Algal alerts are issued by Regional Algal Coordinating Committees (RACCs) who are responsible for local management of algal blooms.

WaterNSW's role in algae management

• Co-ordinate and support Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committees (RACCs).
• Contribute to the State Algal Advisory Group (SAAG).
• Contribute to the Regional Algal Management Guidelines.
• Manage algal communications including hotline, media enquiries, website and briefings to Minister.
• Monitor rivers and storages to service those aspects of the RACC’s reporting requirements, in accordance with the RACC Guidelines and WaterNSW Service Provision Deed.

How WaterNSW manages algal blooms