BOATS AND CANALS

The section of the Basingstoke Canal above Ash Lock all the way to Odiham is closed to non-powered craft owing to Blue/Green Algae. The BBC managed to report the canal as shut altogether but powered craft are still allowed to navigate - just don't touch the water!!

Cheers Graham

We have just received the following good news from the Basingstoke Canal Authority.

We have been monitoring the blue green algae over the last few days and through our own sampling have noted that it has reduced considerably in density within the water. I feel confident to allow unpowered boats back onto the canal. However there is still blue green algae present and everyone should take precautions. Algae is still present from Ash Lock through to Odiham. The worst areas at present are in Fleet, however even there, it is considerably better than last week.

Precautions

Powered boaters - Wash hands after coming into contact with water, such as after lifting mooring ropes or emptying weed hatches.

Everyone - Keep dogs out of the water. If they go in make sure they do not lick themselves and hose them down ASAP to remove the algae from their fur. Do not let them drink the water. (Local vets have been notified of the algal bloom)

Wash hands if you come into contact with canal water.

Unpowered boats – do not carry out rolling practice or any activities that will purposely put you under/in the water. If you capsize accidentally try not to swallow water. Shower and wash clothing as soon as possible. The algae can irritate skin particularly if it is trapped between skin and clothing. If you find any green surface scums or swirls of algae keep away from these. Do not use boats that are prone to capsizing until after the algae has gone.

I will provide further updates as and when I have any changes to report. The Environment Agency have agreed to carry out a second water sample analysis for us next week.


Cheers Graham

Thanks for this information Graham.

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Maurice

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