POLLUTION in the Condamine River this week had locals concerned, however Southern Downs Regional Council says the river should soon be clear.

Water manager Tendekai Mapeza said precautionary signs were placed near the river as a result of a blockage in a nearby sewerage system.

"It created an overflow towards the river on January 26," he said.

"Council identified the blockage early and workers acted quickly to stop the overflow.

"However there is potential that a small amount of contamination reached the river."

The river was tested and the Environmental Protection Agency was advised that the e-coli levels in the water were well within safe levels for environmental and ecological purposes.

"Council have decided to leave signage near the river for another week as extra precaution," Mr Mapeza said.

Condamine Alliance river manager Kevin Graham said a major increase in manmade pollution was evident.

"Our waterways need to be protected," he said.

"It's not only sewers polluting our water, it's rubbish, plastic bags, bottles and cigarette butts.

"Fish get tangled or stuck in these and they unfortunately die."

Mr Graham just returned from a trip to South East Asia where he could see deterioration of vegetation surrounding river systems.

"I'm concerned this is what is going to happen to our creeks, rivers and streams," he said.

"When we lose vegetation, it makes it hard for fish to survive.

"They get mud or sand caught in their gills and it kills them."