Harmful blue-green algae has been detected in both Pigeon Lake and Lac La Nonne, and now people are being warned to stay away from these Central Alberta lakes.
According to reports, the algae warning was issued by Alberta Health Services (AHS), who advised nearby residents not to drink the water or swim in it, avoid contact with the algae along the shore, and even limit their consumption of fish coming from the lakes.
It’s important people follow such advisories against blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, since this fluorescent, paint-like scum is incredibly toxic.
While other forms of freshwater algae make water murky, blue-green algae can poison people and animals who come in contact with it, which means it also has detrimental effects on the bodies of water it invades.
Believe it or not, there are easy ways to help reduce your lakes risk of forming this toxic goo. Simple things like minimizing your runoff and maintaining your septic system at the cottage can have an impact.
For more ideas, and to better identify blue-green algae, read “6 ways to protect your lake from blue-green algae.”
