EDMONTON - Warm summer weather and nutrient rich lakes are combining again this year to produce blue-green algal blooms in some Alberta lakes.

These blooms, which are most common in central Alberta lakes from late June to mid-September, are a result of naturally occurring algae rising to the surface and being concentrated by wind and waves into bays or along shorelines. As the algae break down, they release pigments that give them vivid colours that may look like bright blue-green paint.

In high concentrations and as they decompose, certain types of blue-green algae can also release toxins that are hazardous to wildlife, birds, domestic animals and people. The water in a lake containing a blue-green algal bloom may have a very strong objectionable odour and appearance. Toxicity in a lake is normally temporary, lasting only as long as a bloom or signs of a bloom persist.

While not all strains of blue-green algae are toxic, toxic strains and non-toxic strains can occur at the same time in a lake, and as a result, some areas of the lake could become toxic while others remain safe. Therefore, Alberta Environment recommends that all algal blooms be treated as suspicious and appropriate cautions taken.

If you suspect a problem related to an algal bloom, contact your local Alberta Environment office or call the 24-hour Alberta Environmental hotline at 1-800-222-6514 and take the following precautions:

* Do not allow pets or domestic animals to swim in or drink from the lake
* Do not drink water from any bloom-infested lakes and reservoirs
* Do not swim or wade in water containing concentrated algae
* Provide alternative sources of drinking water for domestic animals and pets
* When at the lake, watch your children carefully to ensure they do not ingest or swim in the water

If you experience fever, headache, dizziness, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea or sore throat that you suspect come from an algal bloom, contact your physician immediately. If your pet has symptoms, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Media contact:

Kim Hunt
Communications
Alberta Environment
(780) 427-2003