Blue-Green Algae
If you spot blue-green algae, take a cautious approach, as some varieties of this algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals. If you suspect a blue-green algal bloom:
- assume toxins are present
- avoid using, drinking, bathing or swimming in the water (call your local health unit for swimming advisories)
- restrict pet and livestock access to the water
Who to contact:
If you spot blue-green algal blooms, call the Spills Action Centre:
For information on health risks associated with blue-green algal blooms, please contact the Timiskaming Health Unit at 705-647-4305.
Prevention
Take these simple steps to prevent the growth of blue-green algae:
- use phosphate-free detergents, personal care and household cleaning products
- avoid using fertilizers on lawns, especially fertilizers that contain phosphorus (please refer to By-law Number 13-17, restricting the use of pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers on any lot within the Township of Coleman that abuts a water body or shore, along a railroad and Hydro One Easements.)
- maintain a natural shoreline on lake and riverfront properties
- reduce agricultural runoff by planting or maintaining vegetation along waterways and minimizing fertilizer use
- check septic systems to ensure they do not leak into the water source
Resources:
For additional information on Blue Green Algae:
- Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Blue Green Algae information page: https://www.ontario.ca/page/blue-green-algae
- Blue Green Algae Information Sheet – Information for drinking water system owners and operators, published by the Ministry of the Environment
- Blue Green Algae Information Sheet – Background, potential impacts to human health and safety of drinking water, published by the Ministry of the Environment
