GRCA says Conestoga Lake remains safe despite algae concerns
Posted Aug 2, 2017 04:13:04 AM.
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The Grand River Conservation Authority is saying tests done by the Ministry of Environment show low algae levels in Conestogo Lake.
The results are still well below the recreation guideline of 20 parts per billion.
But the threat of blue-green algae isn’t over just yet.
Cam Linwood, spokesperson for the GRCA says warm weather means we could see some algae throughout the summer. “We are certainly still aware that conditions right now are still ripe for the formation of blue-green algae and that these blooms could appear at any given time.”
The blooms appear blue-green in colour, and almost look like paint in the water.
Linwood adds what to do if you happen to come across one of these blooms. “If someone comes across blue-green algae bloom, make sure you stay away from it, don’t touch it, don’t consume it, keep your pets back, and if you are concerned about it contact the Spills Action Centre. They will deal with it accordingly.”
Linwood says if you do have health concerns after using the lake, such as a skin rash, to contact public health.
