ANYONE getting out on the water for the rest of summer will be relieved to hear that Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) announced last Wednesday that its blue-green algae warning for Lake Eildon has been removed following a significant decline in algae level.

Earlier in the month a warning was issued telling people to avoid direct contact with water in Lake Eildon after high levels of blue-green algae was detected.

Although the lake has remained open to the public over the holidays for any activities that did not involve direct contact with water while the warning was in place, it will be a relief for locals and visitors alike to know the health risk has been reduced.

According to GMW water quality coordinator Bianca Atley, blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies but contain toxins harmful to humans and animals.

“Contact with it can cause rashes, sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting,” she said.

The best way to stay up to date with any blue-green algae warnings is to visit the GMW website.

People are also reminded that water supplied by GMW is not suitable for human consumption without first being properly treated.

Human consumption includes showering, bathing, washing, cooking, ice-making and drinking.