The Capital Regional District is warning people to keep animals on a leash and to avoid swimming in Elk Lake after it tested positive for a toxic algae.
Water samples taken from Eagle Beach at Elk Lake tested positive for a type of blue-green algae that produces cyanotoxins. Ingesting water containing these cyanotoxins may cause a range of symptoms, including headaches and abdominal pain in humans, and can lead to lethal liver damage in dogs.
UPDATE: Elk Lake Tests Positive for Toxic Blue-Green Algae - As of Jan 31, the advisory remains in effect. Please avoid swimming and keep animals on a leash until the advisory is lifted. https://t.co/XaTIqdwe1X #crdalert
— CRD (@crd_bc) January 31, 2019
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The algae produce a visible blue-green sheen, which looks like surface scum. It is not always easy to see though and toxins can still be present in the water even if the blooms aren’t obvious.
Visit www.crd.bc.ca/alerts for updates on the status of the algae bloom.
RESOLVED: Testing underway for blue-green algae at Beaver Lake - Water sample test results at Beaver Lake are negative for the toxins from blue-green algae https://t.co/JpupH6GN62 #crdalert
— CRD (@crd_bc) January 31, 2019
Water sample test results at Beaver Lake are negative for the toxins from blue-green algae.
RELATED: CRD steps up efforts to improve Elk/Beaver Lake water quality
keri.coles@blackpress.ca
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