Test results confirm Coorong algal bloom
Testing of water in the Coorong North Lagoon has confirmed the presence of the Karenia strain of algae, which has affected parts of South Australia’s coastline.
The testing, conducted by the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) and Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), shows the algae is present in the Coorong North lagoon between Seven Mile Basin and Long Point.
Experts believe the current Karenia algae strain flowed through the Murray Mouth and into the lagoon during the May 26 storm and May 27 high tide.
Further testing will be undertaken to determine the specific Karenia strain.
The Karenia mikimotoi algae has been detected in numerous locations along the Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island since March this year.
Water testing in the Coorong will be undertaken weekly to understand how the situation is developing and to inform any potential future management options.
The composition of the Coorong means that it flows naturally to the open Murray Mouth and vice versa when high ocean tides can enter the lagoon.
This current algal bloom is constantly changing, meaning that its spread and dissipation is dictated by the weather and ocean conditions.
The dynamic nature of the algae means its effect on people, coastal industries and the ecosystem is unpredictable.
Unfortunately, there is no feasible method to dilute or dissipate the bloom. However, Government agencies, including DEW, PIRSA, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and SA Health continue to monitor the situation.
Department for Environment and Water Strategic Projects Director Grant Pelton said the connectiveness of the Coorong to the ocean had numerous environmental benefits but also came with its risks.
“In this instance, it has always been vulnerable to exposure from species such as Karenia algae,” Mr Pelton said.
“The state government agencies involved will continue to monitor the algal bloom in the Coorong and the rest of the state.
“While we can hope that water temperatures continue to drop and prevent the algae from growing in the ocean, the Coorong’s unique low water flow makes it more difficult to dissipate and there is a possibility that the algal bloom remains there for some time.
“Discussions about the flushing of the North Lagoon will be considered, however there are positive and negative ramifications for the river’s ecology, all of which will need to be carefully considered by the experts.”
The state government held a harmful algal bloom workshop on 3 June, when a cross-section of experts came together to discuss the effects of the current bloom and its impact on parts of the South Australian coastline.
Outcomes from the meeting will be collated to inform and improve government preparedness to respond to and mitigate future events.
The Coorong region remains open. Visitors are advised to check signage and avoid contact with discoloured water, foamy water, or water where marine life is dead or in poor health.
For the latest updates on the harmful algae bloom, visit: Department for Environment and Water - SA harmful algal bloom update
