Confirmed Blue Green Algae – Cedar Lake near Kenora
A blue green algae bloom has been confirmed on Cedar Lake near Kenora. Additional blooms reported on Cedar Lake in 2022 will not be announced, but will be listed on Northwestern Health Unit’s Reported Blue Green Algae Blooms webpage.
How to be safe when blue green algae blooms are present
When blue green algae blooms are present in the area, it is important to avoid drinking the water, swimming in it, and using it for bathing or other household purposes. Residential water treatment systems may not remove toxins and should not be relied on during a bloom event. Do not boil the water, as this can cause an increase in toxin levels. Municipally treated water supplies can be used normally unless you are notified otherwise.
People and pets should avoid contact with water that has been recently impacted by a blue green algae bloom, is discoloured, or has scum on the surface. If contact does occur, wash with soap and water or rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae. It is recommended to wait at least two weeks after the bloom has disappeared before resuming the normal use of lake waters.
More information
If you spot a bloom, report it to the Spills Action Centre at 1-866-MOETIPS (6638477). For more information on blue-green algae blooms, follow the links below:
- Information about Blue-Green Algae – Ministry of Environment
- https://www.nwhu.on.ca/our-services/safe-drinking-water/reported-blue-green-algae-blooms/
If you have questions, please contact Northwestern Health Unit at 1-800-830-5978 to speak with a public health inspector.
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Media Contact
Thomas Nabb
Manager, Environmental Health
Northwestern Health Unit
tnabb@nwhu.on.ca