Risk of poisoning for dogs as owners urged to keep pets out of Cooper Park pond due to blue-green algal bloom build-up
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ALGAE that could be poisonous to humans and dogs has been identified in the pond at Cooper Park.
The water at a section close to Elgin Library has turned a brown colour with scum having formed on the surface.
This occurs when blue-green algae multiply to such an extent that they discolour the water. Gunk then often forms, normally at the water's edge.
Moray Council have placed warning signs around the pond urging people to keep themselves and their pets out of the water for health reasons.
"A potential blue-green algal bloom has been observed in this water body," a notice on a pond-side bench reads.
"Swallowing the water or algal scum can cause stomach upsets or more serious health effects. Contact with the water or with algal scum can cause skin problems.
"It is a sensible precaution for you, your children and your animals to avoid contact with the scum and the water close to it."
The pond at Cooper Park had problems earlier in the year when a tree's roots blocked a pipe, causing the water level to fall and water to turn green.
A Moray Council spokesperson added: "Algae can be a problem in ponds and rivers during prolonged periods of hot weather, releasing toxins into the water which may be harmful to humans and animals.
"We have put up warning signs on the seating around the pond advising people to keep themselves, children and pets out of the water."
More advice on algae, and how to keep yourself safe, is available at www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_133137.html.
