Blue-green algae warning Forth and Clyde canal

The alert came from Scottish Canals after the country’s environment agency, SEPA, informed them of the issue.

Recent samples taken at the canal between Bonnybridge and the Falkirk Wheel confirmed the presence of blue-green algae.

Warning notices have been posted next to the waterbody, warning that contact with the algal scum or mat material should be avoided.

Adjoining landowners and fishing interests have also been advised of the situation as have the environmental health department of Falkirk Council, SEPA and Forth Valley NHS.

A spokesman for Scottish Canals said: “At this stage there is no adverse effect on water supplies.”

On Monday, SEPA also said there was “a significant bloom blue-green algal at Townhead Reservoir - Banton Loch in Kilsyth.

Warning notices have been posted next to the waterbody.

Thank you for reading this article on our free-to-read website. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

Please consider purchasing a subscription to our print newspaper to help fund our trusted, fact-checked journalism.

https://www.localsubsplus.co.uk/nord/dm/FFP/V