A green scum was observed last Wednesday on the edge of the Hastings River between the Hibbard and Settlement Point ferries. Following investigations, Port Macquarie-Hastings Environmental Laboratory identified the material as the blue green algae Oscillatoria. Director of Development and Environment Services Matt Rogers said the organism is not known to produce toxins in Australia, and further investigations will be conducted.
“At this point in time, it is recommended that residents and river users take a precautionary approach and avoid contact with the water and any algal scum, until further notice,” Mr Rogers said.
“The scum may have a distinct odour and may be observed as greenish/grey dried deposits on the high tide mark or fine streaks on rocks and pylons. The origin of the algae is currently not known. However, environmental factors such as the recent warm weather, combined with rainfall, may be a possible cause.”
