Dog walkers have been warned to keep their pets on leads when walking in lower Castle Park, after blue green algae was discovered in the boating lake. The Environment Agency visited Castle Park on July 3 and confirmed that the algae which had appeared overnight in the boating lake was of the blue green variety which occurs naturally in river water, particularly during warm damp weather. High nutrient and bacteria levels in the water is the probable cause.
Although not known to be harmful to ducks and other wild fowl, blue green algae (Aphanizomenon) can be harmful if swallowed by dogs and humans. It can also cause a rash or irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes and therefore park visitors and pets should avoid coming into contact with the algae and the water in the boating lake.
As a precaution, the hire of boats on the lake has been suspended until the problem has been resolved.
Notices have been put on display in Castle Park warning visitors to avoid touching the algae and to keep pets and children away from the water.
Although there is no treatment to rid the water of the algae, council officers are now looking at whether it may be able to be pumped out of the boating lake allowing it to be replaced with the hope that the rowing boats will be able to return in time for the school holidays.
Cllr Christopher Arnold, Portfolio Holder for Culture and the Environment, said: “Unfortunately, the weather conditions we’ve been experiencing over the past few days are perfect for helping the algae to grow. However, we are looking at all of the options and hope to be able to find a way to drain the boating lake and get rid of the algae as quickly as possible. In the meantime we would urge all visitors to Castle Park to keep away from the algae and make sure all dogs are kept on leads in the boating lake area.â€
