Algal bloom detected in Idalia lake
Date published: 28 December 2018
Townsville City Council is urging residents and their pets to avoid contact with the water in the large lake at Idalia.
Council’s regular water quality testing program has detected a blue green algal bloom in the large lake at Idalia – closest to Bunnings.
A Townsville City Council spokesperson said recent heavy rains flushed nutrients into the lake and this combined with the hot conditions has created ideal conditions for algae to bloom.
“Council has erected signage around the lake advising the public to avoid contact with the water,” the spokesperson said.
“Pets should be kept away from the water and any fish caught should not be consumed until conditions improve.”
Blue green algae can cause skin irritations and make pets sick.
Council will continue to monitor the situation and advise the community when the algal bloom has dispersed.
