Water Quality Advisory Issued for Isle Lake
On June 30, 2025, Alberta Health Services (AHS) issued a blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) advisory for Isle Lake, warning visitors to avoid contact with visible blooms. The advisory applies to the waters in Parkland and Lac Ste. Anne Counties. Visitors should avoid swimming, wading, or allowing pets into the water. Do not drink or cook with untreated water from the lake, as boiling will not remove the toxins, and it's essential to provide an alternate water source for pets.
What to Do
- Avoid Water Contact: Do not swim or wade in areas with visible blooms.
- Provide Alternatives: Offer pets and livestock an alternative source of drinking water.
- Don't Boil: Boiling water will not remove the toxins produced by the algae, so it is not a safe option for drinking or cooking.
- Wash Thoroughly: If you or your pets come into contact with the water, wash off immediately.
- Limit Fish Consumption: Some may wish to limit their intake of fish from the lake, though fish filets are generally safe.
- Contact Health Link: If you or your pets experience symptoms like skin irritation, fever, nausea, or diarrhea, contact Health Link at 811.
What to Look For
- Visual Cues: Blue-green algae can look like scum, fuzz, or grass clippings on the water's surface.
- Color: The blooms may appear blue-green, greenish-brown, brown, or pinkish-red.
- Smell: The algae can have a musty or grassy odor.
Why it Matters
- Harmful Toxins: The bacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals.
- Symptoms: Exposure can cause skin irritation, sore eyes, stomach issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), fever, and other ailments.
- Severity: Symptoms generally resolve within one to two days, but consistently drinking contaminated water can lead to more serious health problems, and the toxins can be fatal to pets.
Contact Us
Parkland County Centre
53109A HWY 779, Parkland County, AB T7Z 1R1
General Office: 780-968-8888
Toll Free: 1-888-880-0858
After hours: 780-968-8400
Email: hello@parklandcounty.com
