Cooper Park pond sees return of poisonous blue-green algae as warning issued to dog owners and parents
People are being urged to keep children and pets out of the water at Cooper Park’s pond due to poisonous algae.
Blue-green algae has returned to the pond after being spotted last summer. It can occur during bouts of hot weather, where it multiplies more rapidly.
A layer of scum often forms across the surface of the water.
Moray Council have assured the public that Environmental Health are monitoring the area and warning signs have been placed around the pond beside Elgin Library.
The risk of contamination from the algae means that the council will have to halt some of its litter picking duties.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Blue-green algae can produce toxins that may be harmful to humans and animals, particularly during hot weather.
“Please keep yourself, children, and pets out of the water.
“Due to the presence of algae, our team is only able to litter pick from the pond edge.
“While we are doing our best, we appreciate that some litter may remain for now.
“Once the algae clears, we will resume normal litter picking within the pond.”
Moray Council faced the same issue last year, where toxic algal-blooms posed a threat to children and dogs.
More information about the algae and how to keep yourself safe can be found at http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_133137.html
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