Blue-green algae confirmed in Lough Neagh
It's the first time the blooms have been seen in 2025
Two fresh cases of blue-green algae have been confirmed in Lough Neagh, for the first time this year.
The blooms were seen at Traad Point and Kinturk (Curran’s Quay).
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency says it's aware of potential sightings, being circulated on social media and would encourage the public to report theses via the Bloomin’ Algae App, (Bloomin’ Algae | UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology) uploading a photograph and location to enable NIEA scientists to verify if it is blue-green algae and communicate this on the map viewer on the DAERA website Blue-Green Algae - Confirmed Locations
A DAERA spokesman said: “Minister Muir is on record a number of times saying that there are no quick fixes, with problems decades in the making and decades in the fixing. It is therefore unfortunately no surprise that we are beginning to see algae-blooms re-appear again this year, particularly with the good weather.
“The severity and scale of the problem we will be facing this summer will be dependent on a number of factors. Work is well underway to tackle the problem through the Lough Neagh Action Plan and the Minister is determined to turn the tide on water quality, but we know that this will be a long-term endeavour.
“NIEA encourages members of the public to report a suspected bloom through the Bloomin’ Algae App or e-mail emergency-pollution@daera-ni.gov.uk with a photo, if possible, and details on the location of the potential bloom. All reports of blue-green algae can be viewed on the DAERA Blue green web viewer Blue-Green Algae - Confirmed Locations. NIEA will continue to record events and review any significant increase in bloom numbers.
Minister Muir told Thursday’s AERA committee: “Spring should be about renewal not news reports of blue-green algae. Significant work is already underway to tackle the nutrient overload in our rivers, lakes and loughs. I will continue to lead and seek support for the tough decisions needed over the time ahead to improve our waterways and tackle Climate Change.”
Rayo Premium