Clusters of blue-green algae have been spotted at Alice Lake Park, prompting BC Parks to advise visitors to avoid direct contact with the jelly-like growths.
According to a notice from BC Parks, the algae patches appear in shades of bluish green to purple and may be found floating on the surface, submerged in shallow water, or washed up along shorelines. While these clusters are natural, exposure to some species can cause health issues. “If you accidentally come into contact, please rinse off with clean, potable water,” the notice says.
The notice says that Alice Lake is being continuously monitored through regular visual inspections and laboratory testing. If harmful levels of blue-green algae are detected, the public will be notified, and protective measures will be taken.
Visitors are reminded that lake water is not recommended for drinking. Potable water is available at standpipes, drinking fountains, and washrooms throughout the park. The advisory also directs the public to Algae Watch, a citizen science program aimed at helping people recognize and report algae blooms in B.C. lakes.
For more details on health risks linked to blue-green algae, visitors can visit here.
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