The provincial government has issued an alert for blue-green algae, the first of the season for Nova Scotia.
Environment and climate change reported on Saturday in a press release that a blue-green algae bloom was reported in a stream between Lake Shubenacadie-Grand and Lake Fish.
Algae produce toxins that can cause disease in humans and be fatal to pets, according to Elizabeth Kennedy, director of the water branch.
“We want to get the message across that when people have the opportunity to touch or come in contact with water that contains blue-green algae, they are aware of the risks and will keep their pets and family away from them,” he said. dir Kennedy.
Algae have been produced in all parts of the province, Kennedy said, and once it appears in a body of water, it will bloom again when conditions are right.
Climate change
Kennedy said Nova Scotia is likely to see more and more flowers with rising climate change and the effects of extreme heat and precipitation.
Shubenacadie-Grand Lake is a source of water for many new Scots, Kennedy said, noting that people who draw water directly from the lake should be especially careful.
“We want them to be especially aware of the risks of using surface water for their home’s water supply, their personal water supplies, and just to encourage people to be aware of the risks involved and to receive advice. of a professional on treatment requirements, ”he said. dit.
Kennedy said they want the public to report any algae blooms they see at one of the department’s local offices or by calling 1-877-936-8476.
Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change has released a video to help the public identify blue-green algae blooms.