Testing of Brooklands Lake’s Silt to Determine Dredging Costs (UK)

Water quality and silt contamination tests are continuing to be carried out at Brooklands Lake to ensure that water quality remains acceptable.

In the last few days, a number of residents have contacted Worthing Borough Council, distressed at the ill health of some of the birds on Brooklands Lake.

Since April 2014, the Council has been monitoring the water quality in Brooklands Lake on a monthly basis in preparation for the summer’s use of the lake by humans and birds alike. Of the 18 samples taken so far, two have tested positive for a Blue Green Algae which had the potential to form a harmful algal bloom. Although the mid-July testing results are still awaited, the Environment Agency has lowered the risk posed by the Blue Green Algae, indicating a minimal presence in the water.

Given this assessment, the Council has removed the blanket weed and allowed boating to resume on the lake since the water isn’t deemed to be harmful to humans. Monthly monitoring will continue throughout the summer. If the situation changes, the appropriate action will be taken to protect the people, and animals, using the lake.

Below the surface, the Council are testing the lake’s silt to determine whether there are any contaminants present and how much it would cost to dredge the lake bed. Deeper water helps to stop harmful algal blooms forming and dredging may be an effective solution if the silt is free from contaminants.

If the testing reveals that the silt is contaminated, then the Council will investigate options for its safe disposal.

[mappress]

Press Release, July 31, 2014