Algal bloom detected in Idalia lakes
Date published: 22 February 2019
Townsville City Council is urging residents and their pets to avoid contact with the water in two of the lakes at Idalia.
Council’s regular water quality testing program has detected a blue green algal bloom in the largest lake at Idalia – closest to Bunnings and the lake just north of that along Waterbury Terrace and Lakeland Blvd.
A Council spokesperson said recent floodwaters had flushed debris and nutrients into the lake, and this combined with recent hot temperatures and still conditions has created perfect 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 if they drink the water.
Council will continue to monitor the water quality and advise residents when the algal bloom is cleared.
All recovery information is available through the Emergency Management Dashboard.
