August 21, 2020 3.30 pm This story is over 43 months old

Brayford Pool not contaminated with algae, just weed

It’s just duck weed

By Local Democracy Reporter

The green mass floating in the Brayford in Lincoln isn’t toxic algae, it is in fact duck weed.

On Tuesday morning, a green substance had developed across the River Witham and into Lincoln city centre’s waters.

Due to the other confirmed cases in Lincoln and North Hykeham, this was suspected to be blue green algae, something which the City of Lincoln Council warned to be toxic.

However, the Environment Agency has confirmed this not to be the case, and that it is in fact duck weed.

Both are found naturally in rivers and lakes, but weeds are safe.

The differences between algae and weeds. Photo: Environment Agency

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “We have not had any reports of blue green algae in the River Witham.

“Our officer has attended site and we have confirmed the green plant is duck weed and not toxic.

“If members of the public see any fish in distress, please report it to our 24 hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.”

The councils are warning that the Millennium Lakes and Hartsholme Country Park do still have algae in them and should be avoided.