Toxic algae warning for Windermere (From The Westmorland Gazette)
When news happens, text KENEWS and your photos and videos to 80360. Or contact us by email or phone.
Toxic algae warning for Windermere
4:35pm Thursday 29th September 2011 in News
POTENTIALLY deadly blue-green algae has been found on Windermere.
The Environment Agency says it has found evidence of an algal bloom at Low Wray Bay, prompting South Lakeland District Council to issue a warning.
The authority said anyone using lakes, rivers and reservoirs should treat all blue-green algae blooms with caution and contact should be avoided as skin rashes and illness may occur if the water is swallowed.
Farmers and pet owners should also prevent livestock and animals coming into contact or drinking the affected water, as it can sometimes prove fatal for animals.
SLDC’s environmental health team leader, Tracy Howard, said: “Blue-green algae can potentially make people feel quite ill if swallowed or even by just swimming in it.
"We just want people to be aware of the affects and are asking people to be extra careful and vigilant when using the lakes and rivers for recreational purposes during the summer months.
"The public should observe any notices near affected areas and avoid contact or drinking the water.”
Many waters are vulnerable to problems with the algae, typically between June and November.
Experts say all blue-green algal blooms should be assumed to be toxic.
The blooms vary in colour from discoloured green, blue-green, greenish brown, or reddish brown.
Further information about blue-green algae can be found on the Environment Agency’s website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk
life cycle too says...
5:39am Fri 7 Oct 11
Could it be that the boats stirred up and dispersed the algae, or is it simply a scare tactic put about to frighten off the skiers who can still be seen using Wray Bay in the early hours from time to time?