As the August long weekend approaches, the Province of Manitoba is warning beachgoers about elevated levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria and harmful algae blooms at several popular beaches and reservoirs across the province.
Yellow advisory signs have been posted at numerous Lake Winnipeg beaches, including Patricia, Victoria, East and West Grand Beach, and Gimli Beach. These advisories indicate that E. coli levels have exceeded the province’s recreational water quality objective of 200 E. coli per 100mL. While most swimmers are not expected to fall ill, the risk of illness increases with higher bacteria levels.
To stay safe, swimmers are urged to avoid swallowing lake water, wash hands before eating, and refrain from swimming with open wounds or while ill.
In addition, blue-green algae blooms have triggered algae advisories at several inland beaches, including Delta Beach. These blooms can produce toxins harmful to humans and pets. A more serious algal toxin advisory is currently in effect at Plum Coulee’s Sunset Beach, where levels of the toxin microcystin have surpassed the recommended threshold.
Ryan Kontzie , Ward 3 councillor for the RM of Portage la Prairie said,
"The province has issued an algae advisory for Delta Beach, which isn't unusual this time of year, given the low water levels and dry conditions. We just want residents and visitors to be aware that if you see an algae bloom, avoid swimming in it, and make sure to rinse off after coming out of the lake. Conditions can shift quickly with wind direction, so it's important to stay cautious and check advisories before heading out."
The Province of Manitoba issued the following statement:
"Excess nutrients promote the growth of nuisance and/or harmful algal blooms. Aside from nutrients, other factors that affect the growth of algal blooms include light availability, water temperature, water flow, grazers (including aquatic invasive species), and water chemistry.
This year, a prolonged drought period followed by intermittent precipitation events, low flow, low water levels, and warmer temperatures may be contributing factors for bloom formation in Manitoba lakes. However, a reduction in light availability due to wildfire smoke may be delaying the growth of algae and bloom development in some cases.
These factors vary across waterbodies. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the extent of algal growth on lake Winnipeg remains below the historical 25th percentile for this time of year."
The province encourages the public to check for advisory signs at beaches and consult the Weekly Beach Conditions Report before planning their weekend outings.
For a list of beaches included in the advisory click here.