Algal toxins affecting shellfish at Loch Laxford

Highland Council's Environmental Health team have identified raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins following routine monitoring at Loch Laxford, north west Sutherland.  Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels, oysters or razor fish from these areas may pose a health risk.

Warning notices for the public and casual gatherers have been posted at various locations on the shore. Commercial shellfish harvesters in the area have been contacted by the Council, with steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside. As a sensible precaution, people should avoid eating shellfish from this area until further notice. Monitoring work continues and, when levels subside, the warning notices will be removed.

Warning notices at Loch Ewe and at the Dornoch Firth will also remain until levels at these locations subside.

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