5 days ago
Blue-green algae spotted at Conestoga Lake and Belwood Lake
Blue-green algae is pictured in this photo from the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA).
The hot weather has created the perfect growing condition for blue-green algae.
The Grand River Conservation Authority said a small bloom was recently reported at the Conestogo Lake reservoir. Another was found at Shand Dam at the Belwood Lake reservoir in late July.
On Monday, the conservation authority issued a warning for both swimmers and campers. They urged anyone visiting Conestoga Lake and Belwood Lake to keep an eye on their surroundings.
Blue-green algae can be found in lakes, reservoirs and rivers. Sometimes, especially in the late summer and early fall, the bacteria reproduces rapidly and forms large blooms, also call mats or scums. The algae can appear similar to thick pea soup or spilled paint on the surface of the water. The smell has been compared to rotting garbage.
blue green algae
Examples of blue-green algae. (Source: GRCA)
'Blue-green algae thrive on nutrients from fields and lawns that find their way into local waterways and reservoirs during heavy rainfall and spring melts and cause their populations to grow rapidly,' the GRCA said in a media release. 'Some varieties of blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both people and pets.'
The bacteria has, in the past, been reported at Belwood Lake, Conestogo Lake, Guelph Lake, Woolwich reservoirs and Snyder's Flats. Signage has been posted at those locations to let visitors know that they should avoid blue-green algae.
The GRCA also shared some safety tips for campers, swimmers, recreational users and cottagers:
