Dead carp, caused by a blue-green algae outbreak, float in Horseshoe Lagoon. Picture: DAVID THORPE
A COMBINATION of hot weather and reduced water flows has caused a blue-green algae outbreak in Horseshoe Lagoon, killing up to 1000 European carp.
West Albury residents have complained about the strong smell of dead fish, describing the odour as pungent and gassy.
Albury Council’s water group leader Colin Johnson said the blooms were also attributed to higher than normal nutrient levels in the treated water being discharged from the Kremur Street treatment plant.
“Blue-green algae depletes oxygen levels in water and can produce toxins that can potentially pose a risk to the health of humans, animals and the environment,” he said.
“The lagoons do not usually have blue-green algae, although it can be a seasonal occurrence in most aquatic systems, including streams, lakes, estuaries and the sea.
“It can be caused by a number of factors including nutrient levels, low inflows, low storage volumes and warm weather conditions.”
Following the completion of maintenance work, flows will return to normal levels over the next couple of days.
Council will continue to monitor the situation.
However, residents have been advised to not swim in the water and to also keep pets out of the waterways.
