â–º Listen Live

Water Security Agency warns people to be on the lookout for blue-green algae

The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency and the Ministry of Health are warning against swimming in or drinking from waterways that have blue-green algae blooming.

Both agencies say that lakes across the province, including in the Lloydminster area, could be at risk of developing these algae blooms. While Saskatchewan has not had to close any lakes or send out any water advisories, they say people should be aware of what this algae looks like and its risks.

Blue-green algae often forms during calm, hot weather in lakes and reservoirs with shallow, slow-moving or still water that has sufficient nutrients. It can appear foamy or soupy and are usually a shimmering blue, green, grey or tan colour. Algae blooms typically last up to three weeks and can be pushed around the lake or reservoir by the wind.

Swimming in or drinking this algae-bloom affected water can cause red skin, sore throat, cramps or diarrhoea. In addition, pets, especially dogs, are particularly vulnerable to cyanobacteria, the bacteria in these algae blooms. 

Cyanobacteria can also form in many organs, including the skin, of fish. It’s recommended that people keep their consumption of fish organs to a minimum. The WSA says studies have shown this bacteria is not likely to accumulate in fish flesh at levels high enough to be hazardous, and correctly gutted and filleted fish will pose minimal to no risk when eaten by humans. 

The Government of Saskatchewan’s Healthy Beaches program monitors waterways across the province for blue-green algae, with test results posted online weekly from July to September.

Blue green algae formation. [Govt. of Sask, supplied]
Visitors can check online for blue-green algae advisories, but because this isn’t always instantly updated, beachgoers should follow all posted signs. 

 

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Town of Wainwright has lowest cost of living in Alberta

Overall for 2024, on all items, Wainwright comes in at 92.5 meaning its about eight per cent cheaper to buy something in Wainwright compared to Edmonton. Lloydminster comes in at 94.6, meaning prices on average are about two per cent more expensive than Wainwright.

Road expansion for Cenovus Energy Hub begins July 15

If your regular commute takes you along 40 Avenue, from July 15 you will have to adjust that as Lloydminster road crews will lead road upgrades near the soon to be completed Cenovus Energy Hub.

Grace United cancels Sunday service following small fire

In the aftermath of the minor fire at Grace United Church, Lloydminster on Thursday July 3, Sunday service has been cancelled as the church deals with cleanup.

Lloydminster fire crews put out minor fire at Grace United Church

A minor fire at Grace United Church in downtown Lloydminster engaged the efforts of Lloydminster fire crews on Thursday, July 3.

Parade Marshals announced for Lloyd Ex

With the Lloyd Ex Fair celebrating 120 years, the prestigious role of the Parade Marshals to herald the start of the summer festival are Terence Bexson of Marshall and Lyle & Alison Lee of Lloydminster.
- Advertisement -