Testing Reveals Presence of Cyanotoxins at Shubenacadie-Grand Lake in Nova Scotia, Canada
Toxins associated with blue-green algae have been detected in Nova Scotia, Canada's, Shubenacadie-Grand Lake.
Testing confirmed the presence of blue-green algae at Shubenacadie-Grand Lake consistent with levels that are dangerous to dogs, according to The Province of Nova Scotia. The investigation began after a person went to hospital and two dogs died, reported CBC News.
The testing found that pesticides and other contaminants were below detectable levels, however.
The province took samples from Grand Lake and nearby Fish Lake to look for contaminants that can be found in pesticides, toxins produced by algae, and E. coli, reported CBC News. The samples were sent to the National Research Council for testing. Samples from Fish Lake were negative for cyanotoxins and all other tests for chemical contaminants in both lakes are pending.
Halifax Water and the East Hants Regional Municipality have said their water systems are not affected by the advisory, reported CBC News.
The Department of Environment and Climate Change is issuing a blue-green algae advisory for the lake. People should not drink or cook with the water at any time, or swim or boat in the lake, according to the advisory. Homeowners should not consume water from Shubenacadie-Grand Lake or any other lake or river as well.
This advisory will continue through the summer.
The department encourages anyone who sees a blue-green algae bloom to contact one of the regional offices. Additionally, homeowners who have questions about their well-water quality or well construction should have their well water tested or inspected.
Residents have also raised concerns about the nearby Oakfield Golf and Country Club, so checks to see how pesticides are being handled and stored are underway, according to The Province of Nova Scotia. So far, the department has not found any concerns related to pesticide use or storage at the golf course or any non-compliance issue.
Chemical test results are still pending and the department said they will share those results on Twitter as they arrive.
