High Levels of Dangerous Algae Detected in Waihopai River Near Dam

There’s an important health alert for those near the Waihopai River, specifically at the dam upstream of Queens Drive. Environment Southland’s latest checks have found dangerous levels of toxic algae in this part of the river.

Katie Blakemore, a senior scientist with Environment Southland, warns that this algae can be really harmful, especially to pets. She points out that this spot is popular for walking dogs, often off-leash, but right now, it’s safer to keep pets away from the river. Even a small amount of this algae, if ingested, can be poisonous to dogs.

But what is this algae? It’s a natural part of water environments but can grow excessively under certain conditions. While most types are harmless, some can produce dangerous toxins. You can spot toxic algae as a dark green or brown slime on rocks, or as dark mats near the water.

Swimming in the affected area is a big no-no right now. The algae’s toxins are not only harmful if swallowed but can also cause problems on skin contact. People are advised to keep both dogs on leashes and children away from these areas. Stay alert and cautious until health warnings are lifted.

If you or your pets have already come into contact with the river and feel unwell, it’s crucial to see a doctor or a vet right away.

This isn’t just a local issue. Similar algae growth might be happening in other nearby waterways. Environment Southland is keeping a close eye on this, conducting monthly toxic algae checks in various rivers and lakes across Southland. These algae blooms are more common in summer, but they can occur at any time.

Be aware, there are already warnings about toxic algae in other parts of the Waihopai River at Kennington and the Waiau River upstream of Excelsior Creek. So, it’s best to be cautious around these water bodies for now.