Pilot oxygenation program to combat algae in Canning River

24/7/98

A full-scale oxygenation pilot program will be introduced to combat algae blooms in the Canning River following a successful trial last year, Water Resources Minister Dr Kim Hames said today.

Dr Hames said a pilot-scale plant would be established this year along a 1km stretch of the Canning River, including the 100m section of river at Wilson which was the site for last year's trial.

"A report on that experiment indicates the method worked well within the trial area," he said.

"The oxygenation process will prove a major tool in the battle against algae blooms. It allows us to fight a bloom immediately it appears.

"Oxygenation is like a blood transfusion for the affected section of river as water is pumped out, mixed with oxygen and then returned."

Dr Hames, who released the report on the trial today, said it indicated the oxygenation method appeared to have caused a substantial reduction in phosphorus and nitrogen levels in the water column.

"Nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are the main cause of algal blooms," he said.

"This technology is intended to provide immediate relief to stretches of river which are suffering water quality problems and will support the longer-term efforts in improving catchment management practices."

The oxygenation pilot was part of the Swan Canning Cleanup Program and an Action Plan had been launched almost a fortnight ago for public comment.

"Following public comment, the plan will be finalised and become the blueprint for rescuing our river system," Dr Hames said.

As part of the public consultation process, a community forum would be held on Saturday, July 25 at the Social Sciences Lecture Theatre, University of Western Australia between 9am and 12.30pm.

"The future of our river system is vitally important and I would urge all those who can attend the forum to do so," Dr Hames said.

"Admittance is free and the only requirement is that people register by contacting the Swan River Trust on (08)9278 0400."