Wednesday 6 November 2024
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Warning to dog walkers after blue-green algae reported at Holme Pierrepont Country Park

The warning is to water users and dog walkers who are visiting the local country park.

Holme Pierrepont Country Park at National Watersports Centre issued an update on water quality at some of the lakes and bodies of water.

Blue Green Algae is present in the Regatta and Ski Tow (Wake Park) Lakes. To prevent potential illness please keep your dogs on a lead and do not allow them to enter the water.

Activities such as Wipeout, Rafting and Kayaking take place on different bodies of water and are not affected by Blue Green Algae.

Blue-green algae generally grow in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams when the water is warm and enriched with nutrients like phosphorus or nitrogen.

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The water may be discoloured green, blue-green or greenish brown and several species can produce musty, earthy or grassy odours. Blooms can also cause foaming on the shoreline which is sometimes confused with sewage pollution. Some bloom and scum forming blue-green algae can produce toxins. These toxins can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets. They can also be harmful to human health.

Blue-green algae are capable of producing several different toxins. People may be exposed to these toxins through contact with the skin (e.g. when swimming), through inhalation or by swallowing contaminated water.

These toxins can cause skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, fever and headaches. Occasionally they can cause more serious illness such as liver and brain damage. Children are at greater risk than adults of developing problems because of their comparative lower body weight.

Not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic but it is not possible to tell from appearance and so it’s best to assume they are harmful and take the following precautions:
• Do not swim in the water
• Do not swallow the water
• Avoid contact with the algae
• All users especially beginners should consider their ability to remain out of the water

Anyone who has come into contact with water containing blue-green algae should shower with fresh water immediately. Anyone who has come into contact with affected water and has become ill should obtain medical attention and inform site staff.

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