Alberta Health Services (AHS) has placed a no-contact advisory on Eagle Lake, about eight kilometres southeast of Strathmore. The advisory is a result of the recent finding of potentially harmful levels of Cyanobacteria in the waters of Lake Balboa. Residents and visitors are asked to stay out of the water until further notice.
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, produce toxins that are harmful to human and animal health. Since these blooms aren’t always visible, it’s especially important for people to stay informed and use common sense. AHS has been clear that even if the bloom is not visible, the water may still be hazardous.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Symptoms of exposure to Cyanobacteria typically occur within one to three hours. These interconnected symptoms may manifest as skin irritation, gastrointestinal distress, and respiratory issues. The good news is these symptoms typically go away within one to two days. AHS recommends that it is safe to eat fish fillets from Eagle Lake. Tread carefully when it comes to whole fish and fish trimmings.
“Consider limiting human consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from this lake, as it is known that fish may store toxins in their liver,” – AHS
Pet owners need to be especially vigilant. AHS recommends pet owners avoid feeding pets fish or fish trimmings from Eagle Lake. This precaution is taken because of concern that toxins may build up over time.
Recreational Use and Precautions
Recreational visitors to Eagle Lake should continue to use unaffected areas of the lake, where Cyanobacterial blooms are not present. AHS maintains that caution is paramount. The advisory will be in effect until further notice as health officials keep a close watch on the spreading algae.
AHS advises the public to follow some general water safety tips.
“As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any recreational body of water, including Eagle Lake, at any time,” – AHS
Plankton blooms, blown around by wind and weather, change the distribution of algae blooms all over the lake. This can lead to a yo-yoing effect on safety.
“Weather and wind conditions can cause algae blooms to move from one location in the lake to another,” – AHS
