Blue-green algae identified at a Lake Superior beach

(file photo/blue-green algae)

THUNDER BAY — Blue-green algae has turned up again along the Lake Superior shoreline east of Thunder Bay.

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks confirmed the presence of the potentially toxic algae in a water sample at a beach in Shuniah Township.

The sample was taken from the Scott Drive area, about 20 km east of Thunder Bay, on Aug. 14.

When blue-green algae is present in water, health officials say it's important to avoid drinking the water, using it for household purposes, or swimming, because some algae blooms contain harmful toxins.

Pets should also be kept away from the water.

Blue-green algae was found in the same area of the Lake Superior shoreline in July 2023.

Algae blooms aren't common on Lake Superior, but experts have said warming temperatures may make them more frequent.

 

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