North East Water

North East Water has moved to reassure customers that an algal bloom in the Murray River will not affect drinking water supplies.

The Murray Regional Algal Coordinating Committee today released a red alert warning for blue-green algae from Hume Dam to Torrumbarry.

The warning indicates that waters are unsuitable for recreational use or primary contact by domestic users and may also pose a threat to livestock.

North East Water's Operations Manager, Fiona Smith, said the Corporation's treatment plants along this stretch of river were equipped to remove any algae from the water.

"Each of the towns we supply along that reach have activated carbon dosing facilities as part of the treatment process, which removes that algae," she said.

"This covers Bellbridge, Wodonga, Baranduda, Kiewa, Tangambalanga, Wahgunyah, Rutherglen, Bundalong, Yarrawonga, Tungamah, St James and Devenish.¦nbsp; Tallangatta is not affected by the algae alert."

Ms Smith said the Corporation has also increased its monitoring of the raw water supply to ensure the treatment processes are adjusted accordingly as algal levels increase.

"We're confident that this situation will not affect any of our supplies," she said.

Information updates about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained from the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee freecall Algal Information Hotline on 1800 999 457.