AGL Macquarie, operatos of teh Liddell and Baywater power stations, has issued a high level blue-green algae warning for Lake Liddell in the Upper Hunter region.
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The bloom was detected during routine water quality monitoring.
AGL Macquarie advises people not to undertake recreational activities where they may come into direct contact with water from Lake Liddell.
This includes activities such as swimming or water skiing, as well as domestic uses including showering and washing.
Blue-green algae is usually very obvious, appearing as a green paint-like substance on the water and foreshore edges, or in clumps throughout the water. However on occasions the algae may not be visible, especially in windy conditions.
Blue-green algae may contain toxins, and cause severe stomach upsets, nausea and skin irritation in both people and animals.
Boiling water does not remove toxins produced by the algae.
It is recommended that fish caught in water affected by a bloom not be eaten.
AGL Macquarie will continue to monitor the bloom and advise as the situation changes.
Warning signs have been erected in the affected areas.
Information about blue-green algae blooms is available from the Algal Information Hotline 1800 999 457 or the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.
http://www.water.nsw.gov.au/water-management/water-quality/algal-information.