Tipperary Council warns public of toxic algal bloom on Lough Derg

Tipperary County Council has issued a warning about a blue‑green algal bloom on Lough Derg that can produce harmful toxins.

In a statement released on 23 September, prepared in consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE), the council said the bloom is most easily recognised by a bright pea‑green, paint‑like scum on or near the shoreline. The public are advised to “exercise caution” and avoid any contact with the bloom, which may cause skin irritation.

Animal owners are also urged to keep pets, especially dogs, away from the affected area and to provide alternative drinking water for them.

The council noted that similar blooms have become more frequent, persistent and widespread, citing a Dublin City University study linking the rise to climate change, eutrophication and land‑use change. The study warned that toxins such as microcystin‑LR can threaten drinking‑water supplies, recreation, aquaculture and ecosystems, and that delayed detection can lead to tourism loss and increased remediation costs.

Members of the public with concerns can contact the Environment and Climate Action Section of Tipperary County Council on 0818 06 5000.

Source: Agriland. Photo: William Chen / Pexels.