Alert issued for Pigeon Lake due to hazardous blue-green algae presence
In the picturesque landscapes of Alberta, a concerning issue has been arising in bodies of water such as Pigeon Lake and Wizard Lake. The issue at hand is the proliferation of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), a naturally occurring organism that becomes more visible under calm weather conditions.
The root cause of the blooms in these regions can be traced back to the phosphorus-rich soils that Alberta sits upon, exacerbated by agricultural practices and cottage development.
Agriculture contributes to the problem through nutrient runoff. The use of fertilizers, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, introduces excess nutrients into the environment, creating an ideal breeding ground for blue-green algae. Despite recent rainfall improving surface soil moisture, the overall crop condition in Central Alberta remains below historical averages, potentially encouraging continued fertilizer use and increased nutrient loading to lakes.
Cottage and shoreline development also play a significant role. The development of cottages and other properties removes natural vegetation, increases the risk of erosion, and disturbs soil. This erosion can carry soil and nutrients into the lake, further contributing to nutrient loading. Additionally, many cottages rely on septic systems for wastewater. If these systems are not properly maintained, they can leak nutrients into groundwater, which may eventually reach the lake.
The cumulative effect of these factors has worsened the issue around Pigeon Lake, with the lake's nutrient levels elevated beyond what would naturally occur. This increased susceptibility to blue-green algae blooms has resulted in frequent and potentially harmful blooms, particularly during calm, sunny weather conditions.
Alberta Health Services has issued advisories for Pigeon Lake and other Alberta water bodies, warning residents and visitors to avoid contact with visible blue-green algae blooms. Even areas without visible blooms may still be unsafe, and drinking or cooking with untreated water directly from any recreational body of water, including Pigeon Lake and Wizard Lake, is not safe.
Boiling the water will not remove the toxins produced by blue-green algae. An alternate source of drinking water should be provided for pets and livestock during the advisory.
While the health advisory remains in effect, areas of the lakes in which the algae is not visible can still be used for recreational purposes. However, feeding whole fish or fish trimmings from the lakes to pets should be avoided, and people who come in contact with visible algae blooms or who swallow contaminated water may experience various symptoms, including skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Children may experience more pronounced symptoms from blue-green algae exposure, and human consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from the lakes should be limited.
In conclusion, agricultural and cottage development around Pigeon Lake contribute significantly to blue-green algae blooms by increasing the amount of nutrients—especially phosphorus—entering the water. These nutrients fuel the growth of cyanobacteria, leading to more frequent and potentially harmful blooms. Managing nutrient runoff and preserving natural shoreline buffers are critical steps to reduce the severity of these blooms in Alberta’s lakes.
- The increased prevalence of blue-green algae in bodies of water like Pigeon Lake and Wizard Lake in Alberta can be linked to climate change, as warmer weather conditions foster their growth.
- A growing concern in environmental science is the impact of climate change on the health and wellness of our planet, including the proliferation of harmful algae blooms.
- Fitness and exercise enthusiasts, who may partake in water activities, are advised to be aware of the potential risks associated with blue-green algae blooms, particularly those who come into contact with visible blooms.
- The issue of blue-green algae blooms in Alberta's lakes underscores the importance of science and weather forecasting in understanding and addressing environmental challenges, such as climate change and its effects on our health and wellness.
- On the mental-health side, the concern over polluted water bodies may increase stress and anxiety levels among residents, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address environmental issues and promote the sustainability of our ecosystems.
