Leie River in Kortrijk, Belgium is safe for recreation
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The Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) tested the Leie river in Kortrijk, Belgium and found the water is now safe for use.
Last month, duckweed turned the river green, prompting concern from residents. However, tests revealed the duckweed was not an invasive American species, but a natural type. Most of the duckweed has since disappeared from the water’s surface. The river also contained blue algae this summer, which can be harmful to health.
The VMM’s measurements confirmed that the blue algae are now gone, allowing swimming and wakeboarding. City officials explained the duckweed bloom resulted from heavy rain after a long dry period. The rain raised water levels, allowing the duckweed to spread beyond its typical habitat in still water. The city’s council member for Nature, Maxim Veys, had previously reassured the public that the green color was duckweed and not harmful blue algae.
