Magherafelt scientist to host talk on blue-green algae in Ballyronan

A talk on the issue of blue-green algae will be held in Ballyronan next week.

Scientist and slurry expert, Dr Les Gornall will lead the talk which will be held in Ballyronan Marina Community Hall on Tuesday, November 25.

During the event, which is open to everyone, Dr Gornall will review the role of phosphorus in blue-green algae production.

The Magherafelt man also hopes to provide a strategy for reducing the frequency and intensity of the blue-green algae bloom, which has been polluting rivers and loughs across the North for some time.

Dr Gornall believes that phosphorus-based detergents, commonly used in washing machines and dishwashers, are contributing to the widespread problem.

“I will discuss the question of why it is still allowable to sell phosphorus based detergents for washing clothes and dishes in the Lough Neagh catchment  and a solution to this - a phosphorus-free detergent system that is half the price of the detergents available in the shops.  Free samples will be given out for people to try.  If they like them they can order them online for themselves - I have no financial interest in this transaction,” he said.

“Then we will look at the problem of drinking water that is not wholesome, in other words the water is delivered with either colour, taste, smell.   The answer is an ultra-pure low pressure reverse osmosis filter and these are put together in Toomebridge by a local company at a very economical cost.   

“Roy Roddy will bring one along to demonstrate the unit and I will have a video of my own fitted unit which has turned out to be a great solution to pollution. 

“Everyone can help to remove blue green algae and families can protect themselves from the residual chemicals in the water supply,” he added.

Doors open at 7.30pm with the talk commencing at 8pm.