Blue Green Algae Confirmed at Cannock Chase Country Park
Dog walkers visiting Cannock Chase Country Park are being warned to keep their pets away from water after toxic blue green algae was discovered at the popular beauty spot. The algae, which has been found in the Sherbrook Valley area, poses serious health risks to both humans and animals.
According to Staffordshire County Parks, the blooms can cause skin irritation and illness in humans, but for dogs, ingestion can be fatal. Warning signs have been placed around the park, advising visitors to keep dogs on leads near water courses and not to let them swim or drink from affected waters.
Official Warning from Staffordshire County Parks
A post on the Staffordshire County Parks' Facebook page stated: "Blue green algae has now been confirmed on Cannock Chase Country Park. The algae is currently in the Sherbrook Valley area. Locations are highlighted by warning signs in the country park. We are asking all visitors to keep dogs on leads near water courses, not to swim and don't let your pets go in or drink the water. Blue green algae can have severe effects on both humans and pets. In pets it can also be fatal."
The warning also extends to Chasewater, another local beauty spot, urging visitors to stay out of the water entirely. The post emphasized: "We are urging all our visitors to both Chasewater and Cannock Chase Country Park to stay out of the water, to keep dogs on leads and do not let them drink or swim in the water courses."
Public Reaction and Calls for More Signage
Members of the public have responded to the warning, with some highlighting the need for additional signage. In the comments, Nicky noted: "Don't let the name fool you, it's not algae but technically a bacteria." Emma requested more signs at car parks, saying: "Please could you put some signs up on the car parks, I’ve just been to the Stepping Stones near Shrugborough and you can access the stream from the bottom of the car park, but there are no signs until you get to the Stepping Stones, it would also be helpful to have signs on the gates too."
Becca shared her concern: "Second this, I'd already let my toddler paddle in the stream before we reached the Stepping Stones and saw the signs!" These comments underscore the need for clearer warnings at entry points to prevent accidental exposure.
Health Risks and Precautions
Blue green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that affect the liver and nervous system. Symptoms in humans include skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. In pets, symptoms can appear within minutes to hours and may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, difficulty breathing, seizures, and even death. Pet owners are advised to seek immediate veterinary attention if their dog shows any signs of illness after contact with water.
Staffordshire County Parks recommend that visitors avoid all contact with the water, keep dogs on leads at all times, and report any sightings of algal blooms to park authorities. The algae can appear as green or blue-green scum on the water surface, often resembling paint or pea soup.
Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
The situation is being monitored, and additional signs may be placed as needed. Visitors are encouraged to check the Staffordshire County Parks Facebook page for the latest information. For those wanting to stay informed, following the parks' social media channels or signing up for local news alerts is advised.
