ALGAL TOXIN UPDATE

Monitoring work undertaken by the Councils Environmental Health service has identified raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins currently in some lochs in Argyll and Bute. The table under noted summarises the current status on the above date:-



Loch Fyne: Stonefield - re-opened 8 October

Colonsay, The Strand and Islay, Gruinart – re-opened 4 October

Loch Striven – closed 15 July

West Loch Tarbert – closed 6 October

Loch Na Keal and Ulva – closed 7 October

Loch a Chumhainn, Isle of Mull – closed 7 October



Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor fish from these areas may pose a risk to human health and notices to warn the public and casual gatherers have been posted at various locations on the shore. Commercial shellfish harvesters in these areas have been contacted by the Council and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

Monitoring work is currently being undertaken by the Council to evaluate this situation and when the situation subsides, the warning notices etc will be removed.



For further information, please contact Protective Services, Tel: 01631 567920.