Control Algae in Drinking Water coptrol ribbon - water page

Can Coptrol be used in drinking water?

Yes. Coptrol is highly effective and proven method of eliminating blue green algae in potable water supplies.

Is it approved?

Coptrol is approved by the APVMA (Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority) for application in potable water (water suitable for drinking) reg no. 31030 and can be sprayed, dripped or flown onto waterways to treat blue green algae.

What species of algae are most important?

The most important group of algae affecting potable water supplies

are those described as blue greens.

There are a number of species of blue green algae and many of them

produce highly toxic compounds that directly target either the liver or

central nervous system. In their purified form these toxins are more

potent than either arsenic or cynanide.

When a potable water storage system is contaminated by blue green algae it is important to minimise algal cell growth as algae cell population is directly linked to toxic concentration. Large blooms invariably lead to higher levels of toxin in the water.

Early treatment best

We recommend early treatment as this strategy ensures large numbers

of toxin producing blue green algal cells can be prevented from developing

into a bloom, it also ensures the most cost effective use of COPTROL.

If algae is a problem in your drinking water supply follow this 5 step method to keep your waters clear and bright.

1. First identify the algae present. If you are not certain visit

www.algae.info. This site enables you to identify all the common

algae in Australia.

2. Now calculate the volume of water to treat. Ignore depths below

1 metre. We have a page which explains the methods used to

determine the amount of water to treat. If you need assistance

see How to calculate the volume of water to treat with Coptrol.

3. Next calculate the amount of Coptrol needed. An easy way

to calculate is:

If the algae is fine and free floating use 2 mL of Coptrol per 1000 Litres (1 cubic metre) of water. That is equivalent to 2 Litres of Coptrol per 1000 square metres of surface area
If the algae is long and stringy use 5 mL per 1000 litres of water (1 cubic metre) or 5 Litres per 1000 square metres of surface area.

4. Dilute the required amount of Coptrol using a 1:10 or even a 1:20

Coptrol water dilution.

5. The best application method is by spraying. Apply on a sunlit

wind free day when algae first appear. If this is impractical look

at our general recommendations.

If you still need help call RCI at no cost to you. Contact RCI where our free call numbers are displayed. Or you can email us using this form

Coptrol Bibliography

Coptrol Frequently Asked Questions

Coptrol sales page

Coptrol Application rates

Coptrol and Environmental Safety

Material Safety Data Sheet

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