River scum taken to book

6/4/05
A guide to common local algae and aquatic plants was released by Environment Minister Judy Edwards today.
Scumbook! is a field guide that provides information to help correctly identify useful and harmful algal blooms, as well as aquatic plants found on our waterways.
Dr Edwards said the Scumbook was designed to instruct field workers in various environmental arenas, but also aimed to appeal to the average person.
"Algae are a natural part of our waterways and a vital part of the aquatic food chain," she said.
"However, in large numbers, some algae can cause major problems in our waterways by depleting oxygen levels or giving off toxins that can be harmful to fish and sometimes to humans.
"Recent media stories have highlighted the need for us all to become more aware that excessive nutrients in our waterways are promoting the growth of algal blooms in rivers throughout Western Australia, including Perth's Swan River."
The Minister said the situation was made worse by continued reduced rainfall that had prevented flushing of the rivers during winter for several years.
"It is vital that we not only become more aware of what we can do to reduce nutrients entering waterways, but also have more knowledge about algal blooms so we can properly identify and report sightings of suspicious scum and plants in our waterways," she said.
"This is one way in which the community and Government and work together to protect and enhance our unique lifestyle and environment."
Scumbook takes the reader through a step-by-step process of identifying useful algae and plants from potentially toxic algae and nuisance waterway clogging plants.
Colour coding guides the reader from the initial identity of plants, filaments or algae through to more detailed sections - with photos and written descriptions and simple methods of clear identification.
Each description carries symbols that indicate if the plant is an important or normal component of wetlands, if it is an undesirable plant, and if it may pose a health risk.
Designed and compiled by a team of dedicated scientists from the Department of Environment, Swan River Trust and Murdoch University, the book will be sold at the Murdoch University Bookshop for $30, with proceeds going towards a further print run.
Minister's office: 9220 5050