Blue-green algae in Ross River Dam
Disclaimer: Alert levels are updated every Friday.
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| Alert Level | Treatment Requirements |
|---|---|
| Low | Normal treatment of water with increased monitoring of the dam and raw water quality. |
| Medium | Additional treatment may be required. |
| High | Additional treatment is required, which slows down processing times. Water restrictions may be required to ensure safe drinking water. |
| Very High | Additional treatment is required, which slows down processing times. Water restrictions may be required to ensure safe drinking water. |
Looking for dam levels information? Please visit the dam levels page.
The ongoing effects of blue-green algae
The emergence of blue-green algae in natural and man-made water bodies is becoming a global concern. Townsville’s extensive waterways are no exception.
Throughout the year, blue-green algal blooms impact rivers, creeks, reservoirs, urban lakes and lagoons and can produce toxins and taste-and-odour compounds. Effectively managing these blooms requires time and resources including extensive and wide-ranging analytical testing.
Blue-green algae thrive in warm water temperatures and stagnant or slow-moving water bodies – conditions native to North Queensland. It is expected that in Townsville, the frequency and duration of blue-green algal blooms will continue, or increase, in the future.
Council works closely with highly regarded water quality experts on an ongoing basis. As we have had a relatively warm winter and as we approach summer and the temperature increases, there is a potential for algal blooms to again develop in the dam.
- Blue-green algae factsheet (PDF, 1.4 MB)
DID YOU KNOW?
We manage blue-green algae blooms in accordance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines to mitigate potential risks to the community.
Drinking Water Quality Compliance
Townsville Water is committed to providing safe, reliable and cost-effective water services to the Townsville community.
Townsville Water is a registered Service Provider under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008. The network is extensively tested on a regular basis to ensure all water meets the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
