Fishing has been banned and dog owners are being advised to keep their pets away from lakes at Burnham-On-Sea’s Apex Wildlife Park after a confirmed outbreak of toxic blue-green algae.
The ban came into force on Wednesday afternoon (August 2nd) after water tests revealed that the algae is present at the park.
Burnham-On-Sea.com reported on Monday that investigations were underway by the Environment Agency and Sedgemoor District Council’s Clean Surroundings Department.
Signs banning fishing, swimming, and dogs entering the water were placed around the park on Wednesday, as pictured.
It is not the first time that the blue-green algae has been found there. Fishing was banned last summer and three years ago the whole park was closed for several weeks during a serious outbreak.
A spokeswoman at Sedgemoor District Council said recent high temperatures and a lack of rainfall were being blamed on the latest outbreak.
An Environment Agency spokesman added: “Under certain circumstances, this algae can produce toxins harmful to animals, such as dogs.”
The lakes have taken on a vivid green appearance this week, as pictured, prompting the investigation.
RELATED LINKS:
Toxic algae outbreak at Apex Leisure Park
