How to spot blue-green algae

According to the Environment Agency blue-green algae can be harmful to wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets. In humans it has been known to cause rashes after skin contact, and illnesses if swallowed. Water bodies affected by bluegreen algae may be green, bluegreen or greenish-brown and can produce musty, earthy or grassy odours. Blooms can also cause foaming on the shoreline, which can sometimes be confused with sewage pollution. During a bloom the water also becomes less clear, blocking sunlight and stopping plants in the water from growing. Ferry Meadows has not been the only place affected this summer with three locations across the Lake District also testing positive for the algae.

To report an algal bloom call the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60.