As temperatures rise, residents and visitors are encouraged to watch for cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in all local waterways, and to be especially mindful of recent blooms in Grand Lake and Washademoak Lake.

Cyanobacteria blooms can appear as green, blue-green, brown, or reddish scum or foam on the water, or as dark mats along the shoreline. Some blooms can produce toxins that may be harmful to people and pets.

If you see a suspected bloom:

• Avoid swimming or wading in the area
• Keep children, pets, and livestock away from the water and shoreline
• Do not drink, cook with, or wash using water from the affected area. Boiling water does not remove cyanobacteria toxins.

Conditions can change quickly, and toxins may remain in the water even after a visible bloom has disappeared.

If you spot a suspected bloom, please report it to the New Brunswick Department of Environment and Local Government Fredericton Office:

• Phone: 506-444-5149
• Email: elg.egl-region5@gnb.ca

Learn more about identifying cyanobacteria and current advisories here: http://www.gnb.ca/algae

Thank you for helping keep our community safe by staying informed and sharing this information with others.