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Blue-green algae identified at Icarus Lake

A water sample taken Aug. 24 is now being examined for the presence of toxins.
Thunder Bay District Health Unit 2020
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says toxin tests are being conducted on a water sample from Icarus Lake

THUNDER BAY — The Ministry of the Environment has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in a water sample collected at Icarus Lake, just east of Northern Light Lake.

In an announcement Tuesday, the Thunder Bay District Health Unit said the ministry is now analysing the sample for toxins.

The water sample was taken on Aug. 24.

Blue-green algae are microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams, but can rapidly increase in warm, shallow surface water which receives a lot of sun.

When this happens, they can form blooms that make the water look like green pea soup or turquoise paint.

Some blooms produce toxins that pose a health risk to people and animals when consumed, inhaled, or even from skin contact.

The TBDHU said water with blue-green algae should be avoided for about two weeks after the algae has dissipated, regardless of the toxin analysis results.

This is because blue-green algae can turn toxin production on and off in response to weather conditions.

Toxin analysis typically takes four to five business days, and updates are provided on the TBDHU website.

Blue-green algae was also discovered in Icarus Lake at the end of August 2019.

 

 




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