Lummen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The recreational ban at Schulensmeer, lifted after 4 months, was due to blue-green algae. VMM reported 55 bans this season; spokesperson Katrien Sets cited warm weather as a key factor.
As VRT News reported, the recreational ban at Lummen Schulensmeer was lifted yesterday, Oct 28, 2025, after 4 months, the Flemish Environment Agency said. The lake had been closed because of a persistent growth of blue-green algae.
“Blue-green algae prefer warm and dry months, like September was this year. Then they can persist persistently,”
says Katrien Sets, spokesperson for the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM).
What is causing Schulensmeer to face long blue-green algae outbreaks?
According to officials, blue-green algae can cause serious health problems. People who swallow the water, touch it, or breathe near it can develop diarrhea, vomiting, skin and eye irritation, ear pain, headaches, breathing difficulties, allergic reactions, and asthma. Authorities often ban swimming and other recreational activities when algae are detected.
Last year, the lake had to be closed for 5 months. The Flemish Environment Agency is monitoring conditions at the lake and cautions the public to be cautious in warmer months when algae blooms are more likely to occur. They are also looking at ways to minimise the impacts of these blooms when they do occur, and how to reduce the likelihood of them occurring in the future, in terms of recreational activity and the lake’s ecosystem.
The Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) says that blue-green algae are becoming more frequent in Flanders. This year, during the swimming season from May until September, there were bans for swimming in 55 occasions across 48 ponds out of 110 designated ponds for swimming and recreation.
Blossoms are occurring elsewhere and earlier in the season. 10 years ago, the first bloom occurred (first observation) was 1 July. 5 years ago 16 June, and this year, the first bloom was obtained on 16 May.
