23 March 2018

Lake Burley Griffin remains closed as algae levels remain high

| Lachlan Roberts
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Areas of Lake Burley Griffin have been closed to primary contact since February 22nd and will remain closed after a recent analysis of water quality confirmed that algae levels remained high. Photo: Jack Mohr.

The National Capital Authority (NCA) is reminding the community and recreational lake users to not swim or wade in Lake Burley Griffin as the lake remains closed due to elevated blue-green algae levels.

Areas of the lake have been closed to primary contact since February 22nd and will remain closed after a recent analysis of water quality confirmed that algae levels remained high.

The water samples which were taken on Monday 19 March confirmed that the lake is not safe for primary contact recreational activities and will remain closed until further notice. All Lake users should look for algae warning signs indicating the current alert level at major water entry points.

Experienced lake users such as sailers, canoers, and rowers can still use the lake.

The NCA advised that if contact with the water does occur to wash the skin as soon as possible with water and soap.

Symptoms of exposure may include skin irritation, flu-like symptoms, and gastrointestinal illness. It is advised to see a healthcare professional if these symptoms occur.

The NCA will continue to monitor lake water quality as per standard protocols with samples collected weekly.

Under the ACT Guidelines for Recreational Water Quality, two consecutive clear results must be received before lowering or removing alerts.

During the closure, the Captain Cook Memorial Jet will not be operating to remove the risk of inhalation of water droplets from the spray.

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Capital Retro9:09 pm 25 Mar 18

Just phone (or send email) to Access Canberra – they are in the log-jam business so they would know how to handle this problem too.

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