Update 1st December 2024:
By the end of the summer 2024 we were getting very few reports of swimmers itch, and the temperature drop between September and December appears to have cleared the lake. We believe that we cut our weeds too late in the early spring in 2024, and that led to the displacement of the snails and the issues that followed. Lesson learned. The lake is a natural freshwater environment, fed by a stream and we will keep a vigilant eye on the health of the ecosystem as we come out of winter and into the spring. We are doing various works this winter to improve the flow of the water and health of the lake.
We will keep our visitors informed, but don't foresee the same issues again in 2025. Please see the suggested precautions below.
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Update 30th October 2024:
We have had no reports of swimmers itch this month, hooray!
Update 15th September 2024:
We’re seeing very few reports of swimmer's itch. The cooler temperatures and calmer waters are helping to clear the lake, and we believe that cutting the weeds later than usual in the spring contributed to the issue. We’ve learned a lot.
Update 9th August 2024:
We’re noticing that swimmer's itch reports are becoming much less frequent this month. We have been telling everyone about the issue and recommending the precautions. Some have still been experiencing the itching, most have been swimming with no complaints, especially if following the precautions.
Update 20th June 2024:
Swimmer's itch is still being reported, but we’re seeing improvement as our vistors are aware and informed. We’re actively working on finding solutions, although we are not going to commit to any chemical fix that alters the ecosystem.
Update 5th June 2024:
Reports of swimmer's itch are still coming in, and we continue to advise visitors to take precautions. We’re in talks with freshwater experts to help resolve the situation and improve the lake’s health.
Update 30th May 2024:
We’re still receiving reports of swimmer's itch, and we’re working hard to understand the cause. We’re actively monitoring the lake and collaborating with experts to find a way to prevent this issue going forward.
Update 23rd May 2024:
Swimmer's itch is still a concern in the lake, and we’re continuing to advise visitors to follow precautions. We’re working on a solution to prevent this from affecting our visitors in the future.
Update 20th May 2024:
We’ve received reports of swimmer's itch over the weekend, and we’re investigating the cause. We’re consulting with experts to understand the issue better and find the best course of action. Please read the information below. Those most effected seem to be the ones who spent a long time in the shallows.
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Over the last few months some visitors have experienced Swimmer's Itch after spending time in our lake. Swimmer's Itch is an itchy rash caused by microscopic parasites that can be found in freshwater. These parasites, which live on snails, can cause an allergic reaction on the skin of some people while leaving others completely unaffected. The good news is that they cannot survive on humans and the rash is temporary, though it can be quite uncomfortable.
After consulting with freshwater professionals, we've learned that there is no simple solution for removing these parasites without impacting the entire ecosystem. There is no handbook for this and we've never had a problem like this before in the lake, so we are working hard to do what we can.
This is not bacteria or algae bloom, but we want you to exercise caution and be prepared for a reaction if you choose to go in.
There are several precautions you can take to minimise the risk:
- Come prepared with antihistamine. We have some in the shop but best to have your own
- Wear wetsuits that cover your skin while swimming
- Apply a barrier cream or waterproof sunscreen before entering the water
- Towel off immediately after leaving the lake
- Rinse off in the showers after swimming
- Avoid spending too much time in the lake in one stint, particularly in shallow water
People ask us about dogs. My dogs who are water babies and are in regularly have not been affected, but I have read that it can affect dogs and a couple of campers have said their dogs were itchy. As any dog owner knows all sorts of things can cause itching, but it's not been a big issue on site. Please make your own judgement call :)
We understand this news may be concerning, but we don't want to alarm you. Being informed and taking the recommended precautions can help you continue to enjoy the lake & your stay.
If you do experience symptoms, which include itching/burning sensation and small pimples then antihistamines such as Piriton can provide relief, and you can treat the rash with calamine lotion or anti-itch cream. A recent visitor recommended
Eurax cream, which she says eased the itchiness in minutes. A cold compress can also help, as can applying baking soda as a paste. It is not something likely to need a visit to the doctors, unless excessive itching causes infection, but we recommend you keep a close eye and if you have any concerns please contact your doctor.
Please
download a copy of our farm map to see everything we have on offer here, even if you decide the lake isn't for you this time.
See you soon for some wonderful time away from your day to day!
Best wishes,
Jessie &
The Fforest Fields Team
