Poison algae causes lake hazard

9:37am Thursday 18th October 2007

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TOXIC algae at a Gwent beauty-spot has turned a popular fishing lake into a hazardous no-go area for fisherman and dog walkers.

Users of Pen-y-Fan Pond, Croespenmaen, Oakdale, are being warned to stay away from the water as the toxic blue-green algae can cause stomach upsets and skin problems in humans and is potentially fatal to animals.

High levels of hazardous Blue-Green algae were first spotted in the pond recently and still show no sign of dropping.

The algae is a natural phenomenon that normally blooms where there are plenty of nutrients, still water, plenty of sunshine, and wind conditions.

It will go away naturally, but is taking longer than usual because of the recent unseasonal weather.

There have been no reports of dead fish as a result of the algae and once it has cleared, the fish should be safe to eat.

For the time being all activities including canoeing and fishing have been cancelled at the pond, but the country park is still open with people being warned not to touch the water and to keep their dogs on a lead.

Chairman of Islwyn and District Angling club, Colin Price said: "We are really gutted, we've put a lot of time and effort into the pond.

"We've only just had it all weeded and now we can't use it and this time of year is usually good for the sport."

Robert Jones, 39, of Llanhilleth, used to walk his dog near the pond everyday.

He said: "I think it's terrible, I don't like to take my dog for walks here now.

"When I do, I keep her on a lead which just isn't the same."

He added: "It's been so quiet around here, it's a shame."

A spokesman for Caerphilly Council said: "The restrictions will be in place for the foreseeable future and we are regularly monitoring the pond.

"The Environment Agency are also carrying out weekly tests on the water quality."

He added: "The council is looking at various methods of treatment or prevention to address the problem."