Lake Tuggeranong, Australian Capital Territory

Location: Lake Tuggeranong, ACT (Ngunnawal Country)

Impact: Recreation and environment

Focus: Toxic blue-green algal blooms

AquaWatch pilot summary

This pilot project aims to demonstrate success of the AquaWatch system concept for water quality monitoring of Australian inland and estuarine water bodies. It is connected to the Lake Hume pilot site in NSW/VIC.

Lake Tuggeranong is located near Canberra in the ACT and is popular with the local community for recreation such as boating and fishing. Unfortunately, the lake’s water quality can often be affected by toxic blue-green algal blooms with impacts on the health of people, the environment and wildlife.

Toxic blue-green algal blooms


Toxic blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms found in freshwater and marine environments. These bacteria can produce harmful toxins called cyanotoxins, posing risks to the health of people, domestic animals and wildlife.

Under specific conditions like warm temperatures and excessive nutrient levels, toxic blue-green algae can rapidly multiply, forming dense blooms that give the water a green or blue-green appearance. Once released, some toxins may persist for more than three months before they degrade.

Taking precautions like avoiding direct contact with the water and reporting sightings can help minimize the impact of these harmful algal blooms and protect our communities and ecosystems.

Algal bloom at Lake Tuggeranong, ACT. Photo credit: Alica Tschierschke (University of Canberra)

Technology

Implications for water management

The use of AquaWatch at Lake Tuggeranong can provide early warning of algal blooms so water managers can make decisions such as:

  • applying any algae mitigation tactics
  • closing the lake early to prevent health impacts for people

Partners & collaborators

ACT Government | NSW Department of Planning and Environment | WaterNSW