Push to improve water quality in Idalia lakes
Date published: 21 October 2020
Townsville City Council is working to enhance water quality in the freshwater lakes in Idalia following recent deterioration.
Council undertakes regular ecological testing of the lakes, which has identified the deterioration in water quality. A non-toxic algal bloom of pseudo-anabaena was identified last week. Council has also received advice from nearby residents about possible impacts on local birdlife and turtles.
Water quality in the semi-natural lakes can deteriorate as temperatures rise and evaporation from wind increases.
Council officers and contractors will use natural products to stimulate biological processes in the lake that will help:
- minimise impacts of high nutrients in the system from migrating and defecating birds
- reduce odour, and
- stabilise water quality, including oxygen levels.
This natural method of enhancing water quality has been applied in the Idalia wetlands for a number of years. Residents will see Council contractors applying the probiotic formula to both the banks and water body.
Residents are encouraged to report sick or dead waterfowl found in the Fairfield or other wetlands to Council.
