Algal bloom detected in Idalia Freshwater Lake
Date published: 4 June 2020
Townsville City Council’s regular ecological water quality testing program has detected a large blue-green algal bloom in Freshwater Lake in Idalia, near Springside Terrace.
Algal blooms are a common occurrence in tropical waterways. The bloom is likely the result of recent rains flushing nutrients such as lawn fertiliser, grass clippings and soil into the lakes.
Blue green algae can cause skin irritations and make pets sick if they drink the water.
“Council has erected signage around the lake advising the public to avoid direct contact with the water,” a council spokesperson said.
“Pets should be kept away from the water and any fish caught should not be consumed until conditions improve.”
“Very large algal blooms can also lead to a deterioration in water quality which is some cases can cause fish kills.”
Council will continue water quality testing and will monitor the situation.
