The Town is currently investigating a report of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in the ponds at Reservoir Park. Out of an abundance of caution, both ponds will be closed until further notice.
About blue-green algae:
Blue-green algae tends to develop when a period of hot, dry weather is followed by a heavy rainfall. It’s becoming more common because of warmer temperatures and more intense storms caused by climate change.
Despite the name, blue-green algae can be turquoise, green, brown, red, white or mixes of these colours. Blue-green algae blooms can look like fine grass clippings in the water, spilled paint or pea soup. Sometimes they look like a thick scum on the surface. They often smell musty or grassy when healthy and like ammonia when decomposing.
There may also be algae mats at the bottom of clear shallow areas of lakes and rivers or on the shoreline. The algae mats look like clumps of vegetation and can appear black, brown or dark green in the water.
On the shoreline, they may appear brown or grey once they have dried. Animals are attracted to their odour and may try to eat them. Keep children and pets away from algae mats.
Please review the following information for additional details: Blue Green Algae info from the Province of Nova Scotia.
