Armidale Regional Council says major upgrades to the Guyra Water Treatment Plant will help reduce taste and odour problems linked to blue-green algae as warmer weather approaches.
The works have strengthened the plant’s treatment capability ahead of the blue-green algae (BGA) season, when warmer conditions can increase the risk of algal growth in waterways and water storages.
Deputy Mayor Todd Redwood said the council had taken steps to improve the region’s preparedness for future BGA events.
“Council understands the frustration many residents have experienced in the past. Significant upgrades have now been completed at the Guyra Water Treatment Plant to improve our ability to manage taste and odour issues associated with algal activity,” said Redwood.
“While the algae is a natural phenomenon, we want to reassure residents that treated drinking water continues to be rigorously tested and managed in accordance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines to ensure it remains safe to drink.”
Residents connected to Armidale’s town water supply are not expected to experience the same taste and odour problems that have affected Guyra during previous BGA events because the Armidale Water Treatment Plant has ozone treatment infrastructure.
The recent Guyra upgrades are expected to reduce the likelihood of similar impacts on the town’s water supply.
However, Guyra residents may still occasionally notice earthy or musty tastes and odours during periods of elevated algal activity. The council said these characteristics could be unpleasant but did not necessarily mean the water was unsafe.
Boiling water will not remove the taste or odour and may make it more noticeable.
The council is also reminding residents that untreated raw water should not be used for domestic purposes unless it has been appropriately treated, regardless of whether a BGA alert is in place.
Risks increase significantly during an alert and affected raw water may become unsuitable for stock and domestic use, including for customers connected to the Malpas Dam Raw Water Pipeline.
Consuming affected water can cause illness in people, while livestock can become sick and, in severe cases, exposure can result in animal deaths.
Recreational users are also being urged to avoid affected waterways and dams when BGA alerts are in place.
Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing and other activities involving direct contact with the water should be avoided until alerts are lifted. Contact with contaminated water can cause skin and eye irritation, while swallowing it can result in stomach illness.
Pet owners should also keep animals away from affected water during alert periods.
“Blue-Green Algae can develop quickly when conditions are favourable, which is why ongoing monitoring is so important,” said Redwood.
“We encourage residents, landowners and recreational users to stay informed and follow any advice issued by Council to help protect themselves, their families and their animals.”
Armidale Regional Council works with WaterNSW, NSW Public Health and other agencies to monitor BGA conditions across the region.
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