Public given warning following reports of algal on Mayo Lakes

Mayo County Council has received reports of natural algal blooms and cyanobacteria along lake shorelines at Gortnorabbey, Lough Conn, and Callow Lake. 

The recent spell of mild and calm weather has created ideal conditions for these types of blooms to develop along lake shorelines.

These blooms can produce toxins that have the potential to cause illness in humans and fatalities in animals, especially dogs. The blooms can appear as green or blue-green streaks resembling paint at the water surface, or silky scums along shorelands.

Mayo County Council has consulted with the EPA, local dog wardens, and the Department of Agriculture Veterinary Inspector. 

Mayo County Council is advising several precautions regarding natural algal blooms and cyanobacteria.

• Do not touch algal accumulations on the shoreline.
• Wash your hands if you touch the algal material.
• Keep children and pets away from algae on the water’s edge.
• Do not let pets drink the water. It’s a good idea for dogs to be given a good drink of water before walking near a river or lake.
• Wash pets immediately if they come into contact with water suspected to be contaminated with cyanobacteria.

Owners of dogs who have become unexpectedly sick are urged to go to the vet as soon as possible and, where possible, take photographs of algal accumulations observed at the location.