On July 14th there were reports of a possible Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in Little Lake in the City of Peterborough.
Both Rogers Cove and Beavermead Park beaches have been closed while Peterborough Public Health staff conduct bacteriological sampling and submit samples for algal identification and algal toxin analysis.
General information about blue-green algae is available from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks ontario.ca/environment-and-energy/blue-green-algae and from the Ministry’s Blue-Green Algae Fact Sheet.
What should I do if I encounter a bloom?
Take a cautious approach with blue-green algal blooms. Although many varieties of blue-green algae are harmless, some can produce toxins that are harmful to the health of both humans and animals.
In the event of an algal bloom, avoid eating fish caught from these areas.
During an algal bloom, avoid activities such as swimming and bathing in water near the bloom to reduce the risk of exposure to algal toxins.
If you suspect a blue-green algal bloom:
- Assume toxins are present
- Avoid using the water
- Restrict pet and livestock access to the water,
and - Call the Ministry’s Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060
If you have health-related questions please contact your physician or Peterborough Public Health at 1-877-743-0101 (or 705-743-1000).