The serene canals of a Worcestershire town have been overtaken by a striking blanket of bright green duckweed, turning the typically clear waterways into a swamp-like landscape. This sudden transformation is the result of a unique combination of soaring temperatures and recent heavy rainfall.
The town’s historic canal network, known for its narrowboats lining peaceful waters, now resembles a lush green expanse, as images reveal boats nestled within the dense duckweed layer.
Although duckweed is generally harmless in small amounts, excessive growth can deplete oxygen levels in the water, threatening aquatic life. The Canal and River Trust, responsible for maintaining the waterways, has highlighted the challenges of managing this rapid growth, which is being exacerbated by climate change and nutrient-rich runoff carried into the canals by intense rainstorms.
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Despite ongoing annual efforts and funding aimed at controlling duckweed, the Trust admits the quick pace of its spread makes it difficult to keep under control.
A spokesperson for the Trust explained: “Summer weed proliferation isn’t new, but hotter temperatures and stronger storms driven by climate change are intensifying the problem. Duckweed thrives under warm conditions combined with heavy rain, which washes nutrients from surrounding land into the waterways.”
Local residents have expressed concern over the canal’s unusual green appearance, worried that visitors might mistake the thick duckweed for grassy ground.
Gerald Thomas, a 45-year-old resident, said: “The water’s colour is wild right now. It’s happened before, but never like this. The green is so dense it looks like grass, which could be dangerous if people try to walk on it. Some have suggested putting up warning signs to keep visitors safe.”