Beware of lake algal bloom | Bay of Plenty News | Local News in Bay of Plenty

Western Bay people are being urged to check water quality before taking dips at their favourite swimming spots this summer.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Toi Te Ora Public Health Service have begun routine monitoring in lakes and waterways across the region, so far finding potentially toxic blue-green algal blooms in Lake Okaro, near Rotorua.

Algal blooms contained toxins that could cause asthma, itchy skin, stomach upsets and also neurological effects. Medical officer of Health Neil de Wet advised people to make their own assessments on the lakes and rivers before using them.

If the water was an odd green/blue colour or if there was scum on the surface or on the beds of the rivers people and pets should keep away from the water, he said.

"If in doubt, stay out. If there is a health warning issued, don't make contact with the water."

For more information go to www.envbop.govt.nz