The Loch of Cliff is the latest Shetland loch where toxic blue-green algae has been identified.
Blue-green algae blooms can be present in Shetland lochs, especially in warmer weather, and are known to be toxic to dogs and livestock. The public are asked to exercise caution where algal blooms can be seen in lochs.
David Robertson, Team Leader – Environmental Health, Shetland Islands Council said: “We have been made aware of the presence of blue-green algae in the Loch of Cliff, Unst. Signs will soon be erected in the local area but in the meantime we would ask that the public exercise caution around the Loch of Cliff and many other lochs in Shetland where there have been similar reports. Dogs and livestock should be kept away from the water and the public should not bathe in the loch. Fishermen should also be cautious around the loch.”
Reports have also recently been received of blue-green algal blooms in the Loch of Brindister; Kirkhouse Water near Bixter; Muckla Water at Eshaness; and in Clickimin Loch, Lerwick.
Members of the public are requested to make reports of sightings by contacting the local Environmental Health Team on 01595 745250 or by email at ehadmin@shetland.gov.uk or via Facebook. Environmental Health will take appropriate practical action and the list of affected lochs will be added to a webpage at: www.shetland.gov.uk/environmental_health/publichealthalerts.asp
Residents can also report any sightings of blue-green algae using an app developed by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, available at: www.ceh.ac.uk/algal-blooms/bloomin-algae. Further information on the appearance of blue-green algal blooms can also be found on this site.