Blue-green algae at Fleet Pond as dog owners warned to keep pets away from water

An algae that is toxic to animals and humans has been spotted at Fleet Pond in Hampshire.

Blue-green algae has been seen at Fleet Pond and a warning has now been issued to remind people of the potential harm the toxic algae can cause.

Hart Countryside Services posted on its Facebook page on Friday (August 2): "There is blue-green algae at Fleet Pond, it's concentrated by the station, fishing jetties and Boat House corner.

"There isn't any algae along the Gelvert stream and Sandy Bay so they're still safe for dogs to swim in."

The alert went on to state that the algae is toxic and 'may cause harm to both humans and animals'.

"Do not allow dogs to swim," it added. "Avoid contact with the water as this can cause skin irritation and stomach upset."

Hart Countryside Services said the matter has been reported to the Environment Agency (EA).

People commenting on the Facebook post say they have spotted the blue-green algae at other parts of Fleet Pond and are warning dog owners to be on their guard.

What is blue-green algae?

According to the EA, the algae, which is also known as Cyanobacteria, is a 'naturally occurring photosynthetic organism, which can be found in most terrestrial and aquatic environments'.

The EA says: "Water bodies affected by blue green algae, or algal blooms may be green, blue-green or greenish brown and can produce musty, earthy or grassy odours.

"Blooms can also cause foaming on the shoreline, which can sometimes be confused with sewage pollution. During a bloom, the water also becomes less clear, blocking sunlight and can slow down plant growth in water."

Why is blue-green algae harmful?

Here's the advice from the EA: "Bloom and scum forming blue-green algae can produce toxins.

"Toxin producing blooms are called Harmful Algal Blooms. These toxins can be harmful to wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets.

"In humans, they have been known to cause rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed.

"Not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic, but you can’t tell just by looking at them, so it’s best to assume they are."

The algae has been found at a number of Surrey and Hampshire beauty spots over the years, including Chobham Common , Virginia Water , Frensham Great Pond and the Basingstoke Canal near Ash .

Anyone with queries about the blue-green algae at Fleet Pond should call 01252 622122 or email countryside@hart.gov.uk