The provincial government has issued a signal for blue-green algae, the first of the season for Nova Scotia.
Environment and Climate Change said in a news release Saturday that blue-green algae bloomed in a stream between Lake Shubenakadie-Grand and Lake Rib.
Algae produce toxins that can cause disease in humans and be fatal to pets, according to Elizabeth Kennedy, director of the water branch.
“We want to convey the message that when people have the potential to touch or come into contact with water that contains blue-green algae, they are aware of the risks and will keep their pets and family away from them,” Kennedy said. .
Algae have been found in all parts of the province, Kennedy said, and once it appears in a body of water, they will bloom again when conditions are right.
Climate change
Kennedy said Nova Scotia is likely to see more and more boom with increasing climate change and extreme heat and rainfall.
Shubenakadi-Grand Lake is a source of water for many Nova Scotians, Kennedy said, noting that people who draw their water directly from the lake should be especially careful.
“We want them to be particularly aware of the risks of using surface water for their household water supply, personal water supply and simply to encourage people to be aware of the risks there and to receive professional advice on treatment requirements,” she said.
Kennedy said they want the public to report any algae blooms they see at one of the department’s local offices or by calling 1-877-936-8476.
Nova Scotia’s Environment and Climate Change has released a video to help the public identify blue-green algae blooms.
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