Toxicology results have confirmed low levels of microcystin-LR in the eastern leg of Sturgeon Lake. The good news is that the toxin levels were very low – in fact, they were lower than the acceptable level for this toxin in drinking water. (Note: This doesn’t mean that the lake water is safe to drink!)
Archive
Blue-green Algae confirmed – warning remains in place (August 11, 2011)
The Ministry of the Environment’s test results have confirmed the presence of anabaena, a species of blue-green algae (sometimes known as Cyanobacteria). This is a species that can produce toxins in the water. In sufficient concentrations these toxins can cause health problems. The health warning will stay in effect until further notice.
Blue-green Algae Advisory Update (August 8, 2011)
On Monday morning the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District (HKPRD) Health Unit reported that the Blue-Green Algae Bloom Warning remains in place today. The Health Unit is expecting test results from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE) on Wednesday. Those results are expected to be more specific than the very general warning presently in place. The warning status is unlikely to change before then.
Warning: Beach Posted – Suspected Blue-Green Algae Bloom (August 5 2011)
Today (August 5th) the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) posted the Sturgeon Point Public Beach because of a suspected Blue-Green algae bloom. If you visit the Public Beach, you’ll notice a warning sign posted to the garbage bin. “Posting” means that using the lake water or swimming in the lake may pose a health risk. Although the Upper Wharf area has no sign announcing the posting, you should assume that the posting applies that location as well as any private waterfront properties here in Sturgeon Point.