Pigeon Lake fun map. Image via https://pigeonlake.com/fun-map
WETASKIWIN COUNTY, Alta. — If your summer plans include a stop at Pigeon Lake, you may want to think twice before diving in.
Alberta Health Services has issued a blue-green algae advisory after cyanobacterial blooms or toxins were detected in the lake, making it the latest Alberta waterbody affected this summer.
The health agency is advising residents and visitors to avoid swimming or wading where blooms are visible and to avoid all contact with algae in the water or washed up along the shoreline.
People are also being warned not to drink or cook with lake water, even if it has been boiled, because boiling does not remove cyanobacterial toxins.
AHS recommends against eating whole fish or fish trimmings from the lake because toxins can accumulate in fish livers. Fish fillets are considered a lower-risk option.
Pet owners are also being urged to keep animals away from affected areas. Exposure to cyanobacteria can be fatal to pets.
Cyanobacteria occur naturally in Alberta lakes but blooms become more common during warm weather. They can appear blue-green, brown, pink or red and may resemble paint, pea soup, grass clippings or scum on the water’s surface.
People exposed to cyanobacterial blooms may experience skin irritation, rashes, sore eyes, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Symptoms typically develop within one to three hours and usually resolve within one to two days. Children may experience more severe symptoms.
Weather and wind can move blooms to different parts of the lake, meaning conditions may change quickly. The advisory remains in effect until further notice.
Pigeon Lake joins a growing list of Alberta lakes and recreation areas under cyanobacterial advisories, including Astotin Lake, Bonnie Lake, Dried Meat Lake, Floatingstone Lake, Goose Lake, Hope Lake, Isle Lake, Lac La Biche Lake, Lac Ste. Anne, Skeleton Lake, Thunder Lake and the Touchwood Lake Recreation Area.
AHS says areas of Pigeon Lake where blooms are not visible may still be used for recreational activities. Anyone with health concerns related to cyanobacteria is encouraged to contact Health Link at 811.
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