Stenness Loch gets the all clear

The OIC has confirmed that, following tests by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), the water in the Stenness Loch has appears to be free from blue-green algae. Precautionary notices posted next to the loch last week will now be removed.

Welcoming the news, the OIC’s environmental health manager David Brown urged people to remain vigilant and check whether there are signs of blue-green algae growth in the water or around the shoreline.

Blue-green algae growth is a natural occurrence and can, in some cases, cause an upset stomach or skin problems for people and animals.

Mr Brown added: “Where there is evidence of this, it would be sensible to avoid swimming or other water-based activities – and to make sure that pets don’t drink or enter the water.”