The Northwestern Health Unit has confirmed a toxin-producing blue-green algae bloom in Wabigoon Lake in Dryden.
Algae blooms in the Larson Bay and Maple Road areas were reported on August 30.
The body of water has since been sampled and tested by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks.
NWHU asks people to be cautious when using water from the lake in areas where suspect blue-green algae blooms have recently been identified.
Blue-green algae toxins can pose health risks to people and animals when exposed in large amounts.
Avoid drinking, swimming, and using water for bathing or other household purposes.
Do not boil the water, as this can cause an increase in toxin levels.
Municipally treated water supplies can be used normally unless you are notified otherwise.
The health unit says with the water in the region warming, there is an increased risk of blue green algae blooms.
It’s recommended to wait at least two weeks after the bloom has disappeared before resuming the normal use of lake waters.
More information on blue-green algae blooms:
Information about Blue-Green Algae – Ministry of Environment
Reported Blue-Green Algae Blooms
Report Blooms to the Spills Action Centre at 1-866-MOETIPS (6638477)
For more information, call 1-800-830-5978 to speak with a public health inspector at NWHU.
