July 3, 2012
The South Burnett Regional Council has advised that Gordonbrook Dam re-opened to the public on Monday.
Levels of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) in the water are currently at a “moderate alert” level which allows the council to reopen the dam for limited boating and recreation.
Only boats with electric motors (max 6 knots) will be able to use the dam, as will man-powered vessels such as kayaks and canoes.
No ski-boats, jet skis or other fuel-powered boats are permitted.
There are many different types of blue-green algae and Gordonbrook Dam sometimes experiences high levels of the different types.
These levels vary throughout the year and it is necessary to close the dam (water area) for public access and recreation when testing of algae indicates high levels.
The “moderate alert” level indicates an increased health risk for swimming and other water contact activities.
The SBRC says residents should not be concerned about the quality of their drinking water, however, as council’s treatment plant processes the water before it reaches consumers.
