All water-based activities have been suspended at a popular Welsh beauty spot after a significant amount of algae was detected in its ponds. The Beaufort Hill Ponds & Woodlands Society issued the warning following testing at Beaufort Hill Ponds & Woodlands in Ebbw Vale.
In a statement shared on social media, the society said a “significant amount” of algae is currently present in the ponds and advised dog owners to take extra care. A spokesperson said: “Please be advised that a significant amount of algae is currently present in the ponds.”
Dog owners urged to keep pets out of water
The algae has been formally tested, and the society strongly advises that dogs are kept out of the water. “If your dog has recently been swimming in the ponds, please monitor it closely for any signs of illness and seek advice from your veterinarian immediately if you have any concerns,” the spokesperson added.
The exact type of algae detected has not been specified, but one known type of toxic algae is blue-green algae. According to Natural Resources Wales (NRW), blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can occur naturally in water and may multiply rapidly during warm, still conditions.
Health risks and restrictions
While blue-green algae is not always visible, concentrated blooms can appear as clumps of green flakes, greenish bundles or brownish dots on the surface of the water. NRW states that not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic, but it can be difficult to determine whether a bloom is harmful simply by looking at it. As a result, people are advised to treat blooms and scums with caution.
Some types of blue-green algae can produce toxins that can be fatal to animals, including domestic pets, livestock and wildlife, if ingested. People can also be affected by contact with contaminated water, however no human fatalities have been recorded in the UK. Possible symptoms include skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and muscle or joint pain.
As a result of the algae, Beaufort Hill Ponds & Woodlands Society have suspended all water-based activities at the site until further notice. The restrictions include fishing, swimming or paddling, allowing dogs or other animals to enter the water, and launching model boats or other watercraft.
Precautionary measures and next steps
The society said the precaution is intended to help prevent the potential spread of algae or other contaminants to other waterways through fishing equipment, nets, bait buckets and footwear. Visitors have been asked to follow the restrictions while the situation is assessed.
The society added: “We appreciate your cooperation in helping to protect the health of people, pets, wildlife, and neighbouring waterways.” An update will be provided when it is considered safe for normal activities to resume. For dog owners who have recently allowed their pets to swim in the ponds, the advice is to monitor them closely and contact a vet promptly if they show signs of illness.
