Mayo lake contamination concerns raised by Tidy Towns officer

THE environmental officer attached to Castlebar Tidy Towns Committee has raised concerns over the ongoing contamination of water at Lough Lannagh.

In a report to the Castlebar Municipal District, Patricia Conway said it is a perennial issued caused by the release of farm effluent which is evident at the steel bridge.

She elaborated: “Perennial weeds are now evident in this area. Growth of weeds is encouraged by a high level of nitrogen which is contained in this effluent.

“Investigations carried out by Dr. Joe Cafferkey some years ago identified the weeds as water dropworth, an invasive species which slows down the natural growth of aquatic vegetation.

“Because the level of the lake has fallen dramatically the weeds have appeared early this year. The situation has also been further intensified by the presence of pollution. This is affecting the entire health and ecosystem of the lake.

“The construction of a weir at the Aldi bridge would limit the unnecessary flow of water into the town river, thereby controlling and maintaining the level of the lake. When the level of the lake falls significantly, sand and silt is exposed, thereby facilitating further growth of weeds and this is a perennial problem.

“If it isn’t tackled very soon absolutely every part of this lake including the protected wetlands will become choked up completely.”

Ms. Conway also expressed renewed concerns over dog fouling along the pathways at Lough Lannagh.

The animals are being released unleashed and relieving themselves on paths, she stated in a report to Castlebar Municipal District.

“This is appalling and occurs mostly under the cover of darkness. Signs for picking up and notifications of CCTV cameras should be more evident.

“Those with impaired vision and young children walk straight into this matter which is a cause of a very dangerous spread of infection both to humans and animals alike,” she explained.

In respect of the grassed areas at the location, she said they are in excellent condition since mowing commenced this year.

“Preservation of wild grassy areas is of the utmost importance in maintaining this perfectly intact and unspoiled ecosystem,” she pointed out.

Ms. Conway said the provision of additional seating at the lake has been warmly welcomed, especially by the elderly and disabled.

“The fact that seating is now available encourages those to actually set out and walk. They also provide meeting places which are a social requirement.

“It also facilitates those with longterm and physically debilitating illnesses to avail of this beautiful tranquil area which they otherwise would not be able to avail of and be confined to a dull home space.”

She stated the variety of trees at Lough Lannagh is second to none along the beautiful avenue from the castle ruins to the bridge at Aldi.

“It is a feast of birdsong which has to be experienced to realise the wealth and delight of the entire ecosystem. The presence of birds and birdsong is essential to maintain tranquility, relaxation and peace in this area.”