Environment Southland has issued a warning over elevated toxic algae (cyanobacteria) levels in the Mataura River near the Mataura Island Bridge.
Environment Southland director of science and information Graham Sevicke-Jones said because of the warm weather it was likely that toxic algae would also be present in other areas along the Mataura River, as well as other rivers in Southland.
People should take extra care when choosing a swimming spot or letting dogs off leads along rivers, he said.
These algae can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals if swallowed, or through contact with the skin.
People and animals (dogs in particular) should avoid contact with the water and any algae mats that have formed at the waters’ edge, he said.
