Blue Green Algae - Update

When something Like Blue Green Algae affects a fishery, you have to act quickly.  As we only rent the Big Pit, other parties are also involved.  Below, is a small report, detailing some of the issues tackled in the past 11 days.  Some are still to be tackled, but we are confident enough that a partial re opening is now a reality.

Below the report, is a map, showing the closed off section.  See here

"After notification that there was a blue-green algae bloom in Big Pit the Environment Agency were legally obliged to test the water and react to the findings.

The bloom was found to be potentially toxic of the genera Aphanizomenon. Skin contact can cause rashes; contact with the eyes can cause damage; ingestion can cause liver damage.

The landowner was formally notified of the bloom and of the actions they should take. The EA also advised the Environmental Health Officer and the Consultant for Communicable Diseases.

After consultations with the EA the following issues were addressed:

Possible source of nutrients. As the bloom is in the North East corner of Big Pit a possible source of nutrients is the connection between Big Pit and the other pits. Anglian Water were contacted and they cooperated by agreeing to block the concrete pipe to stem any flow.

Notification of users of Big Pit. NPFA reacted swiftly and posted signs at the car park and used the web site to say that Big Pit was closed. The landowner informed residents at Woad Farm. Trespassers are a different issue.

Reopening of Big Pit. The EA’s main concern is cross contamination to other waters. After consultation it was agreed that a partial opening of Big Pit could be acceptable. Enforcing an exclusion zone and good hygiene practices could make this work.