Advice to follow in response to algal bloom

Like many other coastal communities in South Australia, we too are experiencing the devastating effects of the harmful algal bloom which is impacting the quality of our beaches and sea life.

We are following the advice from the Department of Environment and Water and our community is urged to do the same. This includes avoiding swimming or surfing in discoloured or foamy water and not allowing pets to eat dead marine animals that have washed up on our beaches.

More advice can be found in full on this website.

Here are some frequently asked questions and further links for more information.

Is the bloom harmful to people?

Karenia mikimotoi does not cause long-term harmful effects in humans.

However, exposure to discoloured or foamy water can cause short-term skin or eye irritation and respiratory symptoms, including coughing or shortness of breath.

These symptoms usually resolve within several hours of leaving the beach.

Can I swim or walk on the beach?

Avoid swimming or surfing in discoloured water, foam or where marine life is dead or in poor health.

If you experience irritation, go indoors, close windows and rinse exposed skin, seek medical advice if symptoms persist or call 000 in an emergency.

Do not touch or eat dead or dying fish, shellfish or marine wildlife. Fish caught alive are safe to eat.

What should I do if I'm walking my dog on the beach?

Dog owners should keep their pets under effective control to prevent them eating dead or dying fish, which may cause illness.

Do not let your dog swim in discoloured water and foam, or where marine life is dead or in poor health.

What is being done about the bloom?

Government agencies, including the Department for Environment and Water (DEW), the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) and SA Health are monitoring the situation.

Nothing can be done to dilute or dissipate the bloom.

Who should I contact about dead marine wildlife?

Fish deaths can be reported to FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522

Marine wildlife: Visit this website and go to the Contact Us section: National Parks and Wildlife Service SA

See more website links below.