Dogs can return to Mere with a splash (From Northwich Guardian)

Dogs can return to Mere with a splash

3:00pm Friday 18th January 2013 in News

DOGS can return to Marbury Park’s Budworth Mere with a splash this year after water testing discovered levels of blue green algae have dropped significantly.

The Environment Agency carried out tests on December 6 which showed that levels of the potentially toxic algae had fallen below the threshold, meaning it is now safe for dogs to return to the water.

A sign notifying dog owners and walkers of the results has been displayed around the Mere, with Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) thanking people for their patience.

The notice says: “On December 6, 2012 the Environment Agency test results for blue green algae in Budworth Mere fell below the threshold therefore it is safe for dogs to enter the water. Thank you for your patience.”

A spokesperson for CWAC said: “The Environment Agency regularly carries out tests and the level of algae is no longer considered to be harmful.

“Two clear tests were carried out before that decision was taken.”

Although levels have now dropped, the Environment Agency says the algae is still present and levels may increase in spring when the water temperature increases.

Walkers were first informed to keep their dogs away from the Mere last August after routine water testing discovered levels were 20 times higher than normal for that time of year.

Blue-green algae is a regular occurrence at the Mere but anyone with concerns should contact the Council’s Green Space Rangers on 01606 77741.