Harmful algae closes beach on popular Ontario tourist lake

The summer heatwave is already having a major effect on water quality in Durham Region, with the region issuing a Blue-Green Algae Advisory for the eastern shore of Lake Scugog Monday.

Half of the region’s 14 public beaches – including Kinsmen Beach in Port Perry (for the second week in a row) – were also declared unsafe for swimming on Thursday due to elevated bacteria counts.

Durham Region Health Department issued the Blue-Green Algae Advisory for the eastern shore of the lake near William’s Point Road in Caesarea, following test results from a water sample collected on July 9 by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. The water sample confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in the area.

During summer months, changing weather conditions can lead to increased occurrences of blue-green algae in Lake Scugog and other lakes across Durham. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with water that appears discoloured or contains visible algae mats, which may be blue-green, olive-green, or red in colour. Some types of blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and pets.

Residents who draw water from near-shore wells or directly from affected water bodies are advised not to drink the water for the duration of the bloom and for two weeks after the bloom dissipates, as home water treatment systems may not be able to remove toxins. An alternate source of clean (potable) drinking water is recommended. Boiling does remove or destroy toxins that are present in the water.

• Do not swim, wade, or play in water where algae are visible
• Do not drink untreated lake water under any circumstances
• Keep children and pets away from affected areas
• Avoid consuming fish caught in areas where algae are present or where an advisory has been issued

Blue-green algae are microscopic, plant-like organisms that occur naturally in lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams. Blooms can form rapidly and may produce toxins that pose health risks. Foam, scum, or mats on the water’s surface are common indicators of a bloom.

To report blue-green algae call the Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060 or TTY 1-855-889-5775.

Two of the three beaches on Lake Simcoe at Beaverton were also declared unsafe for swimming in the region’s latest weekly beach report, as well as Paradise Beach in Ajax and all three public beaches in Clarington.

Beaches in Oshawa, Pickering and Whitby on Lake Ontario were given the green light for swimming.

For more information about blue-green algae and beach water quality, visit durham.ca/Beaches or contact Durham Health Connection Line at (905) 668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.

Port Perry’s waterfront