Algae in Rideau Canal prompts water warning from Ottawa Public Health

People in Ottawa are being warned to avoid ingesting or even touching water from the Rideau Canal after samples taken from the famous waterway tested positive for blue-green algae.

Samples collected on Sept. 6 above the locks near the Ottawa River contained a species of cyanobacteria that is known to produce toxins, according to Ottawa Public Health. These toxins can be harmful when ingested and through skin contact.

The public health agency has issued the following warnings to residents and visitors of the city:

• Do not eat fish caught in the Rideau Canal. Toxins can build up in fish and eating it may cause illness. 
• Do not allow pets to drink or swim in the water. 
• Do not use the water for swimming, bathing or other recreational uses that result in skin contact or accidental swallowing of water.

Even after the algae bloom dissipates, those precautions should be observed for at least 24 hours. Fish from the canal shouldn't be eaten for at least two weeks after the water clears, Ottawa Public Health advised.

The Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, which conducted the tests, has advised the city's public health agency that it will test water samples from more locations between Mooney's Bay and the Ottawa River.

The warning comes after many residents noticed the water in the canal seemed more green than usual this week.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please call the Ottawa Public Health information line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656) and ask to speak with a public health inspector.