Public given warning following reports of algae on Mayo lake

Mayo County Council has received reports of natural algal blooms along the lake shoreline at Levally Lake close to Lough Conn. As reported on other lakes previously, the ongoing mild and relatively calm weather has created ideal conditions for these types of blooms to develop along lake shorelines.

Some blooms can produce toxins, and if ingested directly or from untreated water, have the potential to cause illness 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 shorelines.

Mayo County Council has consulted with the EPA, local dog wardens, and the Department of Agriculture Veterinary Inspector. The reports received to date have characteristics of a diffuse and localised shoreline accumulation of planktonic cyanobacteria.

At times when such accumulations are present, Mayo County Council is advising the public to:

• Do not touch algal accumulations on the shoreline.
• Do not swim in the water or drink untreated water from the lake.
• Wash 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 raw lake water. It’s a good idea for dogs to be given a good drink of clean 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.