NSW
Griffith City Council has announced it will commence a new trial aimed at eliminating algal blooms and improving water quality at Lake Wyangan (South Lake).
Starting on Friday, 6 September, the Council will initiate the use of AlgaEnviro – Diatomix, an environmentally sustainable treatment designed to reduce Blue Green Algae (BGA) and enhance the overall health of the lake’s ecosystem.
The lake will be treated for 18 weeks, with initial dosing being three times a week via boat.
While Lake Wyangan is not designated for recreational use, the Council says it will closely monitor water quality in both the North and South Lake throughout the trial period.
Diatomix is a liquid micronutrient solution that promotes the growth of diatom algae. Diatoms are a crucial component of aquatic ecosystems, and their increased presence will naturally outcompete cyanobacteria (BGA) for nutrients. As the availability of these nutrients diminishes, the cyanobacteria will be starved, leading to a significant reduction in BGA levels in Lake Wyangan (South Lake).
“If the trial is successful, Council will implement this treatment in Lake Wyangan (North Lake) resulting in a significant reduction in the BGA level and thereby improving the water quality for all recreational users,” said Council Environment and Public Health Coordinator, Vanessa Johns.
“The treatment is considered a whole ecosystem response, and is expected to improve water quality while also supporting the broader ecological food web.”
Diatoms, fostered by Diatomix, will become a vital food source for insects, crustacea, fish, and birds, contributing to a more balanced and healthier environment, she said.
Given the long-term nature of the treatment, Council says the full stabilisation of the lake’s ecosystem may take 6-12 months.
