On Monday (11 Apr 2011), Argyll & Bute Council reported that its monitoring work has identified increased levels of naturally occurring algal toxins in the Stonefield area of Loch Fyne.  Stonefield lies just north of the entrance to East Loch Tarbert.

Stonefield, Loch Fyne (Barmore Island)

Photo © Copyright Patrick Mackie and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

The Council warns that eating shellfish, such as cockles, mussels, or razor fish, from this area may pose a risk to human health.  As a result, and in order to warn the public, the Council has posted notices on the shore.

The Council, which has contacted commercial shellfish harvesters in the affected area, reports that steps have been taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

The Council advises that it continues to monitor the situation across Argyll & Bute, and that the warning notices at Stonefield will be removed when the levels subside sufficiently.

Further information is available from Argyll & Bute Council’s Environmental Health team at 01631 567920.