Durham Region Health Department has been advised by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks that a water sample collected on July 15 from Lake Scugog, near Platten Island, indicates the presence of blue-green algae in the area.
In the summer months, as weather conditions vary, there may be more occurrences of blue-green algae throughout Lake Scugog and other bodies of surface water in Durham Region, said a region statement.
While there is currently no evidence of blue-green algae at Kinsmen Beach (Palmer Park, Port Perry), due to history of blue-green algae at Kinsmen Beach and the fact that blue-green algae has been observed in another part of the lake, the Health Department will be posting advisory signs at Kinsmen Beach as a precaution.
If people observe algae mats that may be blue-green, olive-green, or red in colour, they are advised not to enter the water in the surrounding area as some can produce toxins which may be harmful to humans and pets. Residents are also reminded not to use the lake as a source of drinking water, said the statement.
Blue-green algae are microscopic, plant-like organisms that occur naturally in ponds, rivers, lakes and streams. Although often blue-green in colour, the algae may also be olive-green or red.
People can protect themselves and their pets from blue-green algae blooms by not swimming or playing in areas where water is discoloured or where foam, scum, or mats of algae on the water’s surface are present. Children and pets should not play in, or drink water from areas where a beach advisory is posted. Consuming fish from areas where mats of algae are present or where a swimming advisory is posted is also not advised.
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