Blue-Green Algal Bloom between Craigmarloch and Kelvinhead

A water sample analysed by SEPA has confirmed a blue-green algal bloom on the Forth & Clyde Canal between Craigmarloch and Kelvinhead.

Notices are being posted next to the waterbody, warning that contact with the algal material should be avoided.

North Lanarkshire Environmental Health Department and NHS Lanarkshire have been advised.

About Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) exist in fresh waters in Great Britain and throughout the world; they are noticed when their concentrations increase to form “blooms” and when they form scums – looking like blue-green paint – or when they collect on the shore line.

Some blue-green algae may give rise to adverse medical effects – but not always. Effects on people coming into contact with toxic scums include skin rashes, eye irritations, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever and pains in muscles and joints. Toxic algae have caused deaths of livestock and dogs. The treatment of water supplies removes blue-green algae and additional treatment may be applied to destroy or remove toxins should they arise. The actions currently taken are precautionary.

The level of its toxicity can fluctuate; it can appear one day, be dispersed by the wind and mixing and re-accumulate at any time.