Visit Murray River despite algae: Neville

Blue-green algae has spread through 700km of the Murray River but tourists have been told not to let it put them off visiting the area over Easter.

Signs indicate where it is not safe to swim and authorities say tap water is safe to drink.

"Tourism is important to communities along the Murray River, many of whom may also be affected by the dry conditions impacting on farmers, so I'd urge Victorians to visit these areas and support the local economies of the region," Water Minister Lisa Neville said on Thursday.