Blue-green algae blooms could be back on Ramsey Lake
Richard Lake tests positive for cyanobacteria
Sudbury's health unit is investigating possible blue-green algae blooms in Ramsey Lake.
The health unit says if a bloom is present, people should not swim, drink or let their pets go in the lake.
Blue-green algae looks like pea soup and has a foul smell. It produces toxins that can irritate skin or cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Sudbury's drinking water supply is not affected, the health unit adds.
The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change is testing Ramsey Lake water samples to confirm if a bloom has happened.
Richard Lake tests positive
Meanwhile, the ministry reports that results from samples taken July 5 from Sudbury's Richard Lake are positive for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). The samples contained a species of cyanobacteria that can produce toxins.
The health unit states blue-green algae blooms are not anchored, and can move from one location to another through wind and water action. They are advising residents on lakes to look for blooms in their area.