Summary
An independent assessment of Canvey Lake undertaken in August found that Canvey Lake remained under significant environmental pressure, with water quality deteriorating compared with previous monitoring. Low water levels are believed to have contributed to a build-up of organic material, nutrients and bacteria within the lake, while blue-green algae continuing to dominate at both sampling locations.
The report identified elevated levels of organic matter, suspended solids and faecal indicator bacteria, particularly in the western area of the lake. These conditions can place pressure on oxygen levels in the water and affect wildlife and overall lake health.
Next steps
The report recommends a number of measures to help improve the condition of the lake, including:
- continuing monthly water quality and algae monitoring
- continuing treatments to improve water quality and control algae growth
- installing additional aeration to improve water circulation and oxygen levels
- introducing habitat improvements, including coir rolls and floating eco-islands
- reducing factors that contribute to nutrient and organic matter build-up, including waterfowl feeding
- developing longer-term plans for desilting/dredging to remove nutrient-rich sediment from the lake bed