The first alert of the spring is out after blue-green algae was found in Halifax area lakes.
Some of the bacteria was spotted between Shubenacadie-Grand Lake and Fish Lake.
There is concern the rain and wind over the past few days moved the toxic mat closer to the shoreline. The big concern is for pets, as the bacteria can be fatal if your dog drinks it up.
If you ingest it, you’ll likely be sick for a few days.
The bacteria tends to develop when a period of hot, dry weather is followed by a heavy rainfall.
“The Department of Environment and Climate Change will share through social media reported blue-green algae in public drinking water supplies and popular lakes. This will help people be aware and careful to protect their family and pets. In the case of public drinking water supplies, an inspector will visually confirm the presence of blue-green algae and work directly with the water supply owner.”
Once blue-green algae appears, it’s more likely to reappear in the same body of water over the summer. The Department of Environment cautions people to watch our for blue-green algae from May to October.
It occurs naturally in surface waters like lakes, ponds, rivers and streams.
If you think you see blue-green algae, you should treat it as potentially toxic. Report it to your local Department of Environment and Climate Change office or call 1-877-936-8476.
