Saskatchewan lakes, reservoirs could see blue-green algae blooms

Some of Saskatchewan’s lakes and reservoirs could have a different look this summer.

The Water Security Agency (WSA) and Ministry of Health are warning people that rising temperatures could cause blue-green algae to form in bodies of water.

“To ensure your safety, and that of pets and livestock, WSA and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health are advising the public to avoid direct contact, and consumption of any surface water where blue-green algae blooms are occurring,” a media release said. “Pet owners and livestock producers are also advised to keep their animals away from suspected blooms.”

The WSA said algae blooms are heavy concentrations of blue-green algae that can give the water a shimmering, foamy and pea soup-like appearance. The blooms could be blue-green, bright blue, grey or tan in colour.

The agency said the blooms often form during calm, hot weather in areas of lakes and reservoirs with shallow, slow-moving or still water. They can last up to three weeks and can be moved around the water by the wind.

“Many of Saskatchewan’s southern lakes are prone to blue-green algae due to the high levels of naturally occurring nutrients they contain,” the release said. “These high nutrient level conditions positively affect a lake’s fishery by producing abundant food sources, but they also can lead to blooms of algae with higher temperatures.”

Anyone who comes in contact with or consumes algae-contaminated water can suffer red skin, sore throat, cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The WSA is warning people not to eat shellfish or organ meat from fish caught in lakes with active blooms.