Blue-green algae found on northwest shore of Wasi Lake

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit wishes to advise that a bloom of blue-green algae has been detected on the northwest shore of Wasi Lake, in the area of Mallard Haven Road in the Township of Chisholm. GPS coordinates for the algae bloom location are: 17T 0636610 5111468 +/- 5m.

The Health Unit advises residents who live in this area and any visitors to the area, to take the following precautions for three weeks after the bloom has disappeared:

 If you own a private water system, do not use the water from Wasi Lake for drinking, cooking and bathing. Use an alternate source of water for these purposes.

 You CANNOT destroy the toxins by boiling the water or using home water treatment devices.

 Do not swim or participate in other water sport activities in Wasi Lake that increase the risk of algae material and toxins contacting your skin or being swallowed.

 Do not use the water from Wasi Lake for pets.
The Township of Chisholm is cooperating fully with the Ministry of the Environment and the Health Unit in terms of advice and notice to the public.

Fact sheets about blue-green algae can be found at www.healthunit.biz. Fact Sheets will also be available at the Chisholm Township office. For more health related information, please call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808. For general inquiries about algae blooms please contact the Ministry of Environment at 705-497-6865.

Quote

“If you receive your drinking water from the township water source or from ground water wells, you are not at risk. However, owners of private water systems should avoid using the water from the North West area of Wasi Lake because home treatment devices will NOT destroy the toxins.”

- Robert A-Muhong, Program Manager of Environmental Health.

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