The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has lifted the advisories where blue-green algae blooms were detected earlier this year for the following waterways in Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka:
- Farlain Lake Township of Tiny
- Lake St John Township of Ramara
- Three Mile Lake Township of Muskoka Lakes
- Lake St. George Township of Severn
- Penetang Harbour Town of Penetanguishene
- Bass Lake Township of Muskoka Lakes
- Mary Lake Town of Huntsville
- Leonard Lake Township of Muskoka Lakes
- Smith’s Bay City of Orillia
- Muldrew Lakes Town of Gravenhurst
Residents were advised to take precautions and avoid drinking water from private water supplies that were impacted or draw from the area of the lake where blue-green algae was identified.
Blue-green algae blooms naturally occur in freshwater lakes, bays and inlets, usually during warmer weather. They thrive where water is shallow, nutrient-rich, slow moving and warm, but may also be present below the surface. Generally, cooler weather, rainfall, and reduced sunshine will lead to the breakup of an algal bloom.
The best method for managing algal blooms is prevention. Decreasing the amount of nutrients, such as phosphates and nitrogen, entering the water source can effectively reduce the occurrence and severity of algal blooms. This means using phosphate-free detergents, not using fertilizers on lakefront properties, taking steps to impede agricultural run-off, and ensuring that septic systems do not leak into the water source.
For more information about blue-green algae visit www.smdhu.org/algae or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, weekdays between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
