Blue-Green Algae blooms
It is the season for blue green algae appearing on our canals and reservoirs. In some circumstances BGA can produce toxic substances that can pose a hazard to humans, pets and livestock.
Please report any sightings via the Bloomin’ Algae app which will be automatically shared with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency.
Situation updates
Update 14th June 2024
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae on Townhead Reservoir/Banton Loch, Kilsyth, North Lanarkshire. Warning signage has been posted at the reservoir.
Both NHS Lanarkshire and North Lanarkshire Council have been notified.
Update 29th November 2022
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae on the Birkenburn Reservoir, Kilsyth. Warning signage is being posted at access points to the reservoir.
Both NHS Lanarkshire and North Lanarkshire Environmental Health Department have been notified.
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 as scums or mats.
- 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, waterbirds and fish. 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 behaviour of algae is erratic.
- 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.