Lake Burrumbeet has been closed again today because of a highly toxic outbreak of blue green algae (BGA).

Council has enacted its Blue Green Algae Incident Plan as of 10am today and notified Department of Sustainability and Environment, Central Highlands Water, and the Department of Health.

Water sample laboratory testing received by Council today indicated the presence of toxic blue green algae (BGA) on the south, west and north eastern shores of Lake Burrumbeet.

Today’s laboratory report has identified high concentrations of a species known to be toxic to humans and animals.

Water sampling has been undertaken weekly since blue green algae were visually identified at Lake Burrumbeet in February.

Council has also made contact with the manager of the Burrumbeet Caravan Park, Commodore of the Burrumbeet Ski Boat Club and the Chair of the Lake Burrumbeet Advisory Committee to warn users of the presence of the BGA.

Council has today installed signage to warn visitors of the risk to humans, pets and stock.

Council will maintain visual inspections of the lake and continue to take water samples for analysis over coming weeks, until two successive laboratory results indicate the water is considered safe for human contact.

 Information about BGA is available at www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/bluegreenalgae