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Health warning lifted for Ashley and Kahutara rivers
MEDIA RELEASE
January 21, 2015
Health warning lifted for Ashley and Kahutara rivers
The Community and Public Health division of the Canterbury District Health Board has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued at Ashley River near SH1 and Kahutara River near Peketa (SH1).
Recent water testing at the Ashley and Kahutara River has shown the quantity of potentially toxic blue-green algae mats (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river have decreased and concentrations are now below the levels that are of concern to public health.
Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey says Environment Canterbury’s sampling of these Rivers will continue throughout the summer.
“The public will be informed if testing shows that the quantity of mats have increased and there is a risk to public health again,” Dr Humphrey says.
Facts about cyanobacteria:
• Appears as dark brown/black mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.
• The algae occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer months.
• It often has a strong musty smell and algal toxin concentrations can vary over short periods with changing environmental conditions.
• Although high river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure to toxins.
• If a health warning is in place avoid contact with the water.
• Although district or city councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/ dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river cautiously.
For further information visit http://ecan.govt.nz/services/online-services/monitoring/swimming-water-quality/Pages/river-warnings.aspx
Or contact Community and Public Health on (03) 364 1777.
ENDS
Canterbury DHB
CDHB
Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) is a Christchurch, New Zealand based hospital and healthcare provider for the
Canterbury region of New Zealand. Our region extends from Kekerengu in the North, to Rangitata in the South and Arthurs Pass in the West and comprises the six Territorial Local Authorities of Kaikoura, Hurunui, Waimakariri, Christchurch City, Selwyn and Ashburton.
We collaborate with other health and disability organisations, stakeholders and our community to decide what health and disability services are needed and how to best use the funding we receive from Government to improve, promote and protect the health, wellbeing and independence of our population.
At the Canterbury DHB, our vision is to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Canterbury.
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