The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae (BGA) in a water sample collected from the swimming area at Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area on August 14, 2024. Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area is located approximately 30 km north of Thunder Bay.
When BGA is present in water, it is important to avoid:
- drinking the water
- using it for household purposes
- swimming in it
These precautions should be observed for about 14 days after the BGA has dissipated.
Keep pets away from the water. Their smaller size and habit for drinking lake water makes them more vulnerable.
BGA are microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams. They are usually present in low numbers but can rapidly increase in warm, shallow, surface water that gets a lot of sun. When this happens, they can form blooms that make the water look like green pea soup or turquoise paint. When the bloom is very large, the harmful algae bloom may form scum or solid-looking clumps on the water surface. Some blooms produce toxins than pose a health risk to people and animals when consumed, inhaled, or from skin contact. If contact with BGA occurs, wash with soap and water and rinse with clean water to remove the algae.
BGA blooms in lakes in our region have been relatively uncommon, historically. However, with changing climate and rising water temperatures they may become more common.
Blue-Green Algae Contacts and Information
Suspected BGA blooms should be reported to the Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.
For more information on BGA blooms, please visit the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks website.
Water sampling questions can be directed to the MECP office in Thunder Bay at 807-475-1205.
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