People and pets told to avoid entering Inverness pond due to algae scum

Samples taken from Castle Heather Park, Inverness have indicated the presence of the blue-green algae.

By Louise Glen

May 18 2023, 5:26 pm

Blue-green algae are noticed when their concentrations increase and form "blooms" or scums that resemble blue-green paint. Image: Steve Brown / DC Thomson.

Highland Council has advised caution after blue-green algae was found in Castle Heather Park pond, Inverness

Samples taken from the pond in Castle Heather Park, Inverness have indicated the presence of blue-green algae, that can be deadly to dogs and livestock.

Notices have been posted in the area advising people to stay away from the algal scum.

A spokeswoman for Highland Council said: “Contact with blue-green algae can have health effects for humans and animals; the situation is being investigated by Highland Council Environmental Health Department in partnership with NHS Highland Public Health Department and wider colleagues.

Algae found at Inverness pond

“As a precautionary measure, contact with the algal scum should be avoided by people and pets. Notices will be posted at the park, warning that contact with the algal scum should be avoided.

Environmental Health advise caution as blue-green algae found in Castle Heather Park pond, Inverness – full details here – https://t.co/M1i3gozZmV pic.twitter.com/MvWYnHZ4Ue

— The Highland Council (@HighlandCouncil) May 18, 2023

“Blue-green algae 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 irritation, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever and pains in muscles and joints.

Blue-green algae was detected in the river. It forms a pattern under the water, with white patches called scum. — Blue-green algae in the Highlands in 2020. Photo by Steve Brown/ DC Thomson.

“Toxic algae have caused deaths of livestock and dogs, waterbirds and fish. The actions currently taken are precautionary.”

She said the behaviour of algae is erratic and its level of its toxicity can fluctuate; it can appear one day, be dispersed by the wind and mixing and re-accumulate at any time.

You can find more information about blue-green algae at Public Health Scotland’s website.

During periods of warm weather, the chance of Blue Green algae (cyanobacteria) affecting water courses, particularly ponds, lochs and canals (as well as rivers), increases.

Sometimes the blue green algae can form blooms, which can release toxins into the water.