In March 2015, there was an outbreak of blue green algae in the lower weir of the Gara River which supplies Guyra’s water.  Council staff treated the weir with the algaecide, Coptrol.  Blue green algal blooms are an ongoing issue in the Gara River and for several years the council had been using the algaecide to manage the algae blooms.

When council staff informed the EPA of their actions, they were advised that their use of Coptrol was a breach of the Pesticides Act 1999 and the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. 

Simon Smith, Manager Armidale Region, NSW EPA, said, the council acted without proper knowledge of the use of Coptrol and without consulting the EPA. 

“The EPA is available to assist Councils to manage situations like this and to avoid environmental harm. Had Guyra Shire Council consulted the EPA we would have advised that the use of Coptrol in rivers can be toxic to Australian native fish.  We would also have advised that the use of the algaecide in this manner is not consistent with the approved use of the pesticide, as shown on the label. Further, they would have been informed that it is a breach to pollute waters without a licence,” Mr Smith said.

The EPA issued a Penalty Notice to Guyra Shire Council under the Pesticides Act 1999 for using a registered pesticide contrary to an approved label. The EPA also issued an Official Caution under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act for polluting waters. 

“The EPA is both a regulator of the NSW environment and a resource for its protection.  We are available for consultation on environmental matters and are always available to work with councils to develop solutions and minimise the potential for further environmental impacts. 

“Guyra Shire Council has now consulted the EPA and we are working with them to find alternative and safe treatment options for the blue green algae in Gara River,” continued Mr Smith.