The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) has collected samples at Conestogo Lake reservoir due to the possible presence of blue-green algae. The algae may contain a toxin called microcystin, which can cause illness when ingested by people or animals.
Conestogo Lake park visitors, recreational users, and cottagers surrounding the reservoir should be aware that conditions are present for the formation of blue-green algae and take necessary precautions.
The Grand River Conservation Authority is advising reservoir users:
– Don’t swim in the reservoir,
– Keep children and pets away from the algae,
– Avoid contact with the algae,
– Don’t eat fish from the lake,
– Don’t use the water for drinking or any other purpose,
– Boating is permitted, but boaters should avoid touching the algae.
There have been no reports of human illness caused by the algae.
Conestogo Lake is a 735 ha reservoir on the Conestogo River. It was completed in 1958 for flood protection and to provide water to maintain flows downstream during dry weather.
The reservoir is very active with numerous water Sports and activities. There is a beach located within Conestogo Lake Park and many cottages surround the reservoir.
Algae blooms were first noticed this week when small mats of decaying algae started appearing on the shoreline. Samples were taken on Thursday by MOECC field staff for analysis with results expected back next week. When the algae die, the toxin is released in the water where it naturally breaks down in about five to seven days.
Algae blooms are a natural phenomenon. They tend to occur during hot, dry weather. Algae feed on phosphorous, a chemical found naturally in soil as well as in manure, fertilizers and human waste.
More information on blue-green algae is available:
– in the News section of the GRCA website at www.grandriver.ca
– on the Health Canada website at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/alt_formats/pdf/pubs/water-eau/guide_water-2012-guide_eau/guide_water-2012-guide_eau-eng.pdf
– on the Ontario Ministry of Environment website at https://www.ontario.ca/page/blue-green-algae
