Griffith City Council will commence a new trial aimed at improving water quality at Lake Wyangan (South Lake).
Beginning Friday, 6 September 2024, Council will initiate the use of AlgaEnviro - Diatomix, an environmentally sustainable treatment designed to reduce Blue Green Algae (BGA) and enhance the overall health of the lake's ecosystem.
Treatment duration of Lake Wyangan (South Lake) will be 18 weeks, with initial dosing being three times a week via boat.
While Lake Wyangan (South Lake) is not designated for recreational use, Griffith City Council will closely monitor water quality in both the North and South Lake throughout the trial period, with ongoing water quality updates on Lake Wyangan (North Lake) available on Council's website.
Diatomix is a liquid micronutrient solution that promotes the growth of diatom algae. Diatoms are a crucial component of aquatic ecosystems, and their increased presence will naturally outcompete cyanobacteria (BGA) for nutrients. As the availability of these nutrients diminishes, the cyanobacteria will be starved, leading to a significant reduction in BGA levels in Lake Wyangan (South Lake).
Vanessa Johns, Environment and Public Health Coordinator at Griffith City Council said, "If the trial is successful, Council will implement this treatment in Lake Wyangan (North Lake) resulting in a significant reduction in the BGA level and thereby improving the water quality for all recreational users."
This treatment is considered a whole ecosystem response, and is expected to improve water quality while also supporting the broader ecological food web. Diatoms, fostered by Diatomix, will become a vital food source for insects, crustacea, fish, and birds, contributing to a more balanced and healthier environment.
Given the long-term nature of this treatment, the full stabilisation of the ecosystem may take 6-12 months.
For ongoing updates on Lake Wyangan (North Lake) water quality and alert status, please visit Council's website at www.griffith.nsw.gov.au
