Oxford University warning amid ‘harmful’ algae outbreak

The warning has been issued for people and pets not to enter the water at Oxford’s University Parks after a bright green algae bloom appeared on its surface.

One local, Angela Mills Wade, said the algae was ‘almost fluorescent’ and recommended pet owners ‘heed the warnings’.

One local described the colour of the algae on the water as ‘almost fluorescent’ (Image: Angela Mills Wade)

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She said: “Many people see this and think it’s ugly. I see something rather different.

“It’s a natural seasonal phenomenon, part of the river’s changing cycle, even if it only lasts for a short time.

“We often celebrate nature when it’s neat and picturesque, but it’s just as fascinating when it’s messy, fleeting and simply doing what ecosystems have always done.”

She shared images from University Parks in South Parks Road, whose waterways had a blanket of bright green algae making its surfaces appear solid.

Algae bloom in University Parks (Image: Angela Mills Wade)

A notice displayed in the park by the University of Oxford’s parks department said: “Please be aware that there is currently an algal bloom in the river caused by the recent dry weather conditions.

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“This may be harmful to humans and pets so it is advisable NOT to enter the water or allow your dogs to do so until further notice.

“Thank you for your understanding.”

Harmful algae blooms can occur when there is an excess of nutrients in the water – caused by a number of sources, such as agricultural run-off or sewage pollution – along with warm water temperatures and calm or stagnant conditions.