Summer monitoring 2012/2013

Results shown below are the final readings from the 2012/13 summer monitoring. These relate to monitoring of indicator bacteria and observations of cyanobacteria (blue-green) mats in stoney bed rivers.  The result is for the day the monitoring or observations were done.  It is possible water quality has changed since then, especially if it has rained recently.  We recommend you use the following rules of thumb before using any rivers in the Region:

• If the water looks clean and clear and it is a sunny day, it should be safe to swim
• It is safest to wait three days after rain before swimming at river swimming spots
• If musty smelling, black slimy mat-like growths are observed on river bed stones it is safest for you and your dog to avoid using the river.

CYANOBACTERIA WARNING

Monitoring by Horizons Regional Council has identified high levels of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) at monitoring sites in much of the Manawatu River Catchment.  These growths may contain toxins that may be harmful to people and animals, especially dogs.  If these blackish, glossy, musty/earthy smelling mats are seen on rocks, we suggest avoiding use of the river as a precaution.

Advisory signage has been posted at the following river sites because blue-green algae densities exceeded guideline values in January 2013. Recent river freshes should have cleaned the algae away, but we have left the signs posted because they contain helpful advice for river users:

• Manawatu River at Hopelands Reserve
• Mangantainoka River at State Highway 2
• Tokomaru River at Horseshoe Bend

For more information take a look at our cyanobacteria infosheet. Warning signage looks like this:

BACTERIA TEST RESULTS

Colour code:

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