No harmful algae bloom found at three Wakaw Lake locations following reports of dead fish
Testing at three locations on Wakaw Lake has not found a harmful algae bloom following reports of potential blue-green algae and dead fish earlier this week.
The R.M. of Hoodoo says Saskatchewan Public Health conducted site visits on Tuesday, July 21, testing at the Regional Park Beach, Poplar Beach and Hoodoo Beach.
No harmful algae blooms were identified at any of the three locations.
However, the RM cautioned that the results do not rule out the possibility of an algae bloom elsewhere on the lake.
“These results do not confirm the absence of algae blooms throughout the entire lake, as conditions can vary between different areas,†the RM said in a release.
Blue-green algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria, can multiply rapidly in warm, nutrient-rich water and form large blooms. Some blooms produce cyanotoxins that can be harmful to people, pets, livestock and wildlife.
Wakaw Lake has experienced blue-green algae issues in the past, in part because of its shallow depth and phosphorus-rich waters.
A significant bloom in August 2011 was studied as part of the 2012 Wakaw Lake Lakeshore Development Study. Researchers found that blue-green algae had become dominant in the lake, while populations of tiny organisms that normally feed on algae had declined, limiting the lake's natural ability to control the bloom.
Dead fish not necessarily linked to algae
The RM says the presence of dead fish does not automatically indicate a harmful algae bloom.
Fish kills can occur naturally and are relatively common in Saskatchewan lakes. Further investigation would be required before determining whether the reported fish mortality is connected to algae.
The RM is asking residents who notice unusual water conditions, algae blooms or dead fish to take photos, document the location and report their concerns. That information can help Public Health determine whether additional investigation or testing is warranted.
Residents with concerns can contact Saskatchewan Public Health directly at 306-232-9645.
While the three Wakaw Lake locations tested on July 21 did not show a harmful algae bloom, conditions can vary between different areas of a lake and can change over time.
Residents are encouraged to check current advisories before heading to the water and to report any unusual water conditions or fish mortality they observe.