Warning signs are being posted around Conestogo Lake advising people to take precautions because of the presence of blue-green algae in the water.
The algae contain a toxin called microcystin that can cause a rash after contact, or illness when ingested by people or animals.
Conestogo Lake is very active with numerous water Sports and angling. There is a beach located within the Conestogo Lake conservation area and many cottages surround the reservoir.
The Grand River Conservation Authority is advising those visiting Conestogo Lake:
– avoid all contact with the water;
– keep children and pets away from the algae;
– don’t eat fish from the reservoir; and
-don’t use the water for drinking or any other purpose.
The algae were observed by GRCA staff and local residents over the weekend. Staff collected samples on Monday to test for the presence of microcystin.
Algae blooms are a natural phenomenon. They tend to occur during hot dry weather. Algae feed on phosphorous, a chemical found naturally in soil as well as in manure, fertilizers and human waste.
An algae bloom at Belwood Lake reservoir near Fergus in August led to restrictions on water activities there.
