Suspected Blue-green algae bloom at Snyder’s Flats

The suspected presence of blue-green algae has been observed at Snyder’s Flats. The GRCA has notified the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks as well as the local health unit, and signage will be posted at the property, which is located in Bloomingdale.

Some varieties of blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both people and pets. Visitors to Snyder’s Flats should be aware that when blue-green algae is visible, the following precautions should be taken:

• Keep children and pets away from the algae.
• Avoid contact with the algae.
• Do not eat fish from the water body.
• Do not use the water for drinking or any other purpose.

Note that swimming and boating are not permitted at Snyder’s Flats. For their own safety, pets should never be left unattended, and dogs must always be on a leash that’s less than 2m/6 ft long when visiting Snyder’s Flats.

Blue-green algae thrive on nutrients from fields and lawns that find their way into local waterways and reservoirs during heavy rainfall and spring melts and cause their populations to grow rapidly, forming blooms or scum on the surface of the water.

When an algal bloom starts to grow, a noticeable green or brown scum will form on the surface of water bodies and the water look like green or bluish-green pea soup. Once blue-green algae are in full bloom, it may look like spilled ‘paint’ along the shoreline. A new blue-green algal bloom often smells like fresh cut grass, while an older bloom can smell like rotting garbage.

More information about blue-green algae

Visit the GRCA website at www.grandriver.ca/algae to learn more about blue-green algae on GRCA reservoirs.

Visit the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks website to learn more about blue-green algae.

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Media contacts:

James Clark, Senior Communications and Marketing Advisor
Phone 519-621-2763 x2240  |  Email jclark@grandriver.ca

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Manager, Strategic Communications and Environmental Education
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316  |  Email lstocco@grandriver.ca