Yeah, I find it odd that these "Blue-Green" Algae blooms are occuring when the weather has been fairly cool this summer. Not a particularly good sign for Pigeon Lake. I've spoken with a few residents and they all seem to say that it's getting worse just about every other year. Too bad really....
Anyway,
This was taken from the AB Government Website:
Throughout the summer months - and especially during calm, warm weather - naturally occurring algae rise to the surface of lakes and ponds throughout Alberta. Wind and waves concentrate them in visible masses or blooms in bays and along shorelines. Lakes with algae blooms often have a strong unpleasant odour and appearance.
Not all strains of blue-green algae are toxic. However, toxic strains and non-toxic strains can occur at the same time in a lake. Toxicity in a lake will usually last up to two weeks after severe blooms disappear and can occur in parts of the lake where blue-green algae were not previously abundant.
Do not drink water from any bloom-infested lakes and reservoirs
Do not swim or wade in the water
Do not let your children drink or swim in the water
Do not allow pets, domestic animals or livestock to swim in or drink from the lake
Provide alternative sources of drinking water for domestic animals and pets
If you experience fever, headache, dizziness, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, severe rash or sore throat that may be from contact with an algal bloom, contact your physician immediately. If your pet has symptoms, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. If you encounter fish or wildlife that you suspect may have been harmed by blue-green algae, please contact your local Fish and Wildlife office by calling 310-0000, toll-free in Alberta.
More information about blue-green algae can be found at
www.environment.alberta.ca under Education.
Cheers,
/FC...
pigeon what is up?
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