A potentially harmful outbreak of marine algae affecting parts of the Fal and Helford estuaries last Friday was not disclosed to the public, despite precautionary warnings from the Environment Agency (EA).

The worst affected areas were Polwheveral Creek and Port Navas on the Helford estuary and Calenick Creek on the Fal, where bait diggers had discovered large numbers of dead marine worms. Some shellfish deaths had also been reported.

Preliminary tests by the Environment Agency last week found that the deaths of worms and shellfish had probably been caused by marine algae that release toxins poisonous to marine life.

An Environment Agency statement issued on Friday 23rd August 2002 confirmed that "environmental health officers at the local district council had been alerted to safeguard public health as a precautionary measure".

Surfers against Sewage (SAS) checked with both Carrick and Kerrier district councils and found that no signs or information warning the public of the potential harm that may be caused through contact with toxic algal bloom had been placed in the affected areas.

The recent outbreak of algal bloom affecting this area of Cornwall is believed to be Karenia (Gyrodenium aureolum) and, although not usually harmful to humans, is thought to cause skin irritations. However, its effect on marine life is well documented; the toxins it produces suffocate fish as well as killing shellfish and worms.

Richard Hardy, SAS Campaign Assistant said: "There has obviously been a communication breakdown between the EA and the affected district councils that has put the public at unnecessary risk. For this to happen in the run up to a busy bank holiday weekend is especially disappointing and raises serious questions about competency and procedure. Whilst little is known of the risks to human health from Karenia, where there is a potential health risk, the public should be informed as a matter of urgency".

Back