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Warning lifted for Selwyn / Waikirikiri River at Whitecliffs
MEDIA RELEASE
February 5, 2015
Health warning lifted for Selwyn / Waikirikiri River at Whitecliffs Domain
The
Community and Public Health division of the Canterbury
District Health Board has lifted its algal bloom health
warning issued along the Selwyn River at Whitecliffs Domain.
This was issued on November 21, 2014
Recent surveys at
Whitecliffs Domain has shown the quantity of potentially
toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river
has decreased and algal cover is now below levels of concern
to public health.
Dr Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, says Environment Canterbury’s sampling will continue to the end of this summer then will resume next summer when there is increased likelihood of cyanobacteria growth.
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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