Concern has been expressed in East Clare over the growing presence of an algal bloom on the shores of Lough Derg.
The pea-green scum like build up can cause skin and eye irritation, gastro-intestinal illness and nausea, and can be lethal for animals, especially dogs.
The algae was first identified at Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon as these areas are regularly utilised for swimming, however it’s understood prevailing winds have carried it up to parts of Meelick Bay.
Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor Pat Burke has been telling Clare FM’s Daragh Dolan it’s vital people stay away from the affected areas.
You can listen to the full interview here:
Clare County Council FAQs on Algal Bloom
Q.1 How dangerous is this Algal Bloom ?
Clare County Council scientific staff have identified the presence of blue green algae at Ballycuggeran (Killaloe) and Mountshannon bathing areas and have issued HSE advise to the public on foot of this. Blue green algae have the potential to produce toxins and as such the advice is for people to avoid contact with the bloom and to keep all animals in particular dogs away from it. We will continue to monitor the situation and will update the public with further advice once we have it. Should people or animals come into contact with an Algal Bloom the HSE advice is to wash it off with fresh water immediately.
Q2. How is it caused ?
Blue green algae are tiny organisms, which occur naturally in lakes. The three main factors that, together, allow algal blooms to form are warm temperatures, strong sunlight, and high nutrient levels. In still waters the algae, can multiply and discolour the water. Blue green algae are mostly seen during periods of long hot weather in waters however more recent research suggests they have adapted to cooler temperatures. These ‘blooms’ appear green, blue green or greenish brown and can form a scum on the surface.
Q3. How long does it typically last ?
It is very much dependant on the weather conditions. There is no typical timeframe however a previous algal bloom on Lough Derg lasted for approximately 3-4 weeks.
Q4. Is it likely to expand to other areas of Lough Derg ?
The algae were identified at Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon as these areas are regularly utilised by the public for swimming even outside of the season. Blue Green algae are likely to be present in other areas of Lough Derg and the scum can appear at different places at different times. It is most commonly found at the water’s edge or shoreline.
We are aware that our Colleagues in Tipperary County Council have a similar notice in place at Dromineer. We are continuing to liaise with them in this regard.
Q5. What danger does it pose for animals ?
Algal blooms can produce toxins that can pose a particular risk to animals in some cases causing death. It is very important that they should be kept away from the shoreline where there is any scum present.
