CONSTRUCTION activity, dredging and the use of weedkiller are the reasons why parts of the River Wye are covered in green algae, according to David Wales, chairman of Wycombe Thames and Wye Valley Association.

The group, which is responsible for administering Rye Dyke, near Hollywell Mead open air swimming pool, says the algae has been formed because natural weed which normally grows in the water has been killed.

David Wales explained: "The real reason why Rye Dyke is in a sad and sorry state is the complete loss of weed in the dyke. This has led to the formation of the horrible green algae that now adorns the surface, despite our best efforts to clear it out."

David said the algae was unlikely to be caused by anglers' groundbait because its use is prohibited on the dyke or by residents feeding the ducks.

He said: "It is very clear that any bread left after the ducks have had their fill is soon cleared up by the fish."

The Wycombe Thames and Wye Valley Association has proposed a millennium project to clean up the river to Wycombe District Council. They want to see the dyke suction-dredged to clear the silt and allow vegetation to re-establish itself in the river.

A spokesman for Wycombe District Council said: "Nothing is immune from modern life and we monitor the situation very carefully.

"We have taken professional advice and it is true that pond weed keeps a certain type of algae down."

He said that the council had already spent nearly £500,000 on the river and was committed to enhancing it for the next millennium.

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