Bedford Borough Council has issued a warning to residents and visitors over growing concerns about blue-green algae blooms that are appearing on areas of the lakes at Priory Country Park and some of the Borough’s watercourses.
Blue-green algae naturally occur on inland waters such as rivers and lakes, estuaries and in the sea. It plays an important role in freshwater and marine biodiversity but excessive amounts can result in the forming of blooms.
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The forming of blue-green algae blooms produces toxins, which can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets, alongside the potential to cause skin rashes and illness if swallowed by humans. Blooms can also have a negative effect on the appearance, quality and use of the water, as well as producing an unpleasant odour.
The Council has reported their concerns to Public Health England and the Environment Agency (EA), in line with the EA’s written procedure, who will look at opportunities to resolve the issue. Local organisations that use the areas affected have also been notified.
Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “Although blue-green algae form naturally on some waters, conditions this year have meant that blooms have become more prominent. The hot, dry weather combined with the lack of wind and rain has resulted in greater build ups of algae that aren’t being dispersed as they usually would.
“Please be sure to avoid any blue-green algae that you come across and ensure any children and pets are supervised at all times while near any lakes or rivers in the Borough.”
If you notice a build-up of blue-green algae blooms on the surface of the water, you should report it to the Environment Agency’s incidents hotline by calling 0800 80 70 60.
