Blue-Green Algae Advisory Issued for Eastern Shore of Lake Scugog

Durham Region Health Department has issued a Blue-Green Algae Advisory for the eastern shore of Lake Scugog near William’s Point Road in Caesarea. This follows water testing conducted by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, which confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in a sample collected on July 9.

The Health Department advises that some types of blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to people and pets. According to the advisory, individuals using water from near-shore wells or directly from the lake should not drink this water for the duration of the bloom and for two weeks after it ends. The Health Department states that home treatment systems may not remove these toxins and recommends using an alternate source of potable water.

The Health Department also advises residents and visitors to avoid contact with water that appears discoloured or contains visible algae mats, which may be blue-green, olive-green, or red. According to the Health Department, boiling untreated lake water removes or destroys toxins. Additional safety guidance includes: not swimming, wading, or playing in water where algae are visible; keeping children and pets away from affected areas; and avoiding consumption of fish caught in areas where algae are present or where an advisory is in effect.

The Health Department describes blue-green algae as microscopic, plant-like organisms that occur naturally in lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams. The advisory notes that blooms may form rapidly and can produce toxins. The Health Department states that foam, scum, or mats on the water’s surface are common signs of a bloom.

The Health Department asks that sightings of blue-green algae be reported to the Spills Action Centre. Information about blue-green algae and local beach water quality is available from the Durham Region Health Department.