PREMIUM
Water

Water news in brief

Water hyacinth on a farm dam.

Beware of water weeds

Two of the world’s most invasive water weeds, salvinia and water hyacinth, threaten our food growing communities and environment.

These weeds may look attractive, but they are highly invasive and quickly cover waterways.

If you suspect you have water hyacinth or salvinia on your property, email a photo to weed.spotters@agriculture.vic.gov.au or call AgVic on 136 186.

You can also make a report via the Agriculture Victoria website at: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/weeds/illegal-online-trade-of-noxious-weeds-in-victoria

The invasive weed salvinia.

Blue-green algae in farm dams

Recent flooding combined with warmer weather has increased the risk of blue-green algal blooms in farm dams.

Blooms typically appear as surface scum that looks like a suspension of green paint, often with an earthy smell.

If a suspicious bloom is noticed, stock should be removed as quickly as possible, and a safe alternative water supply provided.

Blue-green algae can cause poisoning in livestock.

See page 10 for the latest blue-green algae warning for the Broken River.

For more information, go to: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/water/blue-green-algae-in-water

Floodwater and farm water supply

Floodwater has the potential to impact farm water supplies.

Farm dams and channels can become contaminated after floods, with potential for water quality issues to develop over time.

Learn more about how to manage contaminated farm water supplies at: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/emergency-management/floods/what-to-do-after-a-flood/managing-contaminated-livestock-water