Experts remain concerned over algal bloom threat to scenic Kerry lough
Kerry County Council’s senior executive chemist, David Lenihan, yesterday said enough phosphates were getting into the lake to cause a bloom, even though tests in June had shown phosphates levels to be low.
The last time a major bloom occurred in the lake was in 1997.
But the current warm calm weather creates conditions where blooms can occur. Water levels in Lough Lein are also very low, at present, following the lengthy dry spell.
“Earlier indications of an increase in algae seem to have receded, but we’re watching the situation very closely and there’s still a risk of a bloom. Over the last three years, the clarity of the water has improved,’ Mr Lenihan said.
Already this summer, anglers have been voicing concerns about the polluted state of the lake.
Canadian pond weed and another weed, called water net, have taken an invasive hold, especially in Ross Bay, close to Ross Castle. These weeds grow profusely and can clearly been seen on the surface of the lake.
Mr Lenihan said it was not desirable to have such weeds in the lake, but they were more of an “aesthetic nuisance” than anything else.
Canadian pond weed is often used in the gardens and may have reached the lake from gardens. The phenomenon is being investigated by the South Western Regional Fisheries Board.
Meanwhile, during the summer, water samples are taken twice monthly from up to seven locations in the locations in the lake.
Algae samples are also taken from the lakeshore and are examined for evidence of the telltale blue/green algae. If levels of blue/green algae are sustained for a few days, there’s a protocol whereby signs are put up around the lakeshore warning the public not to come in contact with the water.
Further samples are then taken to see if toxins are present.
Mr Lenihan said people could do a lot to prevent the flow of phosphates into Lough Lein.
He said farmers should ensure slurry is spread in accordance with good agricultural practice and farmyards should be managed in an environmentally friendly way.
“Householders can also do their part by ensuring their septic tanks are properly maintained and that they use phosphate-free detergents,’ Mr Lenihan emphasised.
