Water access at Henderson Lake limited due to algae

Oct 4, 2022 | 1:39 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Residents of Lethbridge are advised to steer clear of the water at Henderson Lake for the time being.

The City of Lethbridge is temporarily closing the boat launch and docks due to a bloom of Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).

“The Cyanobacteria species may potentially produce toxins that are harmful to people and their pets,” reads a media release from the City of Lethbridge. “Risks are low to humans as the toxins must be ingested. Humans may experience a skin irritation if splashed or swim in the water.”

The risk to pets, however, is greater. Pet owners are being told to not let their dogs swim in the lake or drink water from it.

The City states that there are no ways to treat a body of water to get rid of Cyanobacteria blooms once they are underway.

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“The City’s Parks and Cemeteries team currently partake in several recommended prevention methods including aeration mixing and chemical treatment (Phoslock),” the City says. “The prolonged warm weather with little wind for mechanical mixing is likely the cause of this late season bloom.”

The presence of algae in Henderson Lake was confirmed on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, with lab testing by Lethbridge College’s water department.

The City of Lethbridge says it appreciates the public’s understanding and patience.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

by David Opinko