Margaree Rivers' Tests Show No Algae Toxins

Test results of water in Southwest Margaree and Margaree rivers in Inverness County, show that the algae has dropped to acceptable levels and does not pose a health risk. No toxins are present.

Although no toxins were found, people are encouraged not to use lake and river water for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth unless properly treated and disinfected.

The Department of Environment issued public advisories about the presence of an algae bloom in the lake and the rivers as a precautionary step to ensure public health is protected.

Algae blooms occur naturally in water that is high in nutrients such as phosphate and nitrate. The cause of the blooms is not known.

For more information, a fact sheet is available at www.gov.ns.ca/nse/water/docs/BlueGreenAlgae.pdf or call the local Department of Environment office at 902-625-0791.