Cyanobacteria, more commonly known as blue-green algae, has been identified in the lake. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

Cyanobacteria advisory issued for Henderson Lake

Aug 2, 2024 | 4:36 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The City of Lethbridge is warning the public of an algae flareup at Henderson Lake.

Cyanobacteria, more commonly known as blue-green algae, has been identified in the lake, and the City is advising that residents take the following precautions:

• Avoid all contact with water experiencing cyanobacteria blooms. If contact occurs, wash with tap water as soon as possible.
• Do not allow pets or children to wade or swim in the lake.
• Do not feed whole fish or fish trimmings from this lake to your pets.
• Consider limiting human consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from this lake as it is known that fish may store toxins in their liver.

Park users are also reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water from any recreational body of water including Henderson Lake, at any time.

Cyanobacteria and algae are naturally occurring, becoming visible when the weather is hot and calm. The City says Cyanobacteria appears like scum, grass clippings, fuzz or globs in the water and can be green, blue, brown or pinkish red.

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: January 6-12, 2025

Jan 07, 2025

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: December 30 - January 5, 2025

Dec 30, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: December 16-22, 2024

Dec 17, 2024

People who ingest water containing the bacteria may experience symptoms like skin irritation, a sore throat and rashes, or even vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, ingestion may be fatal to pets.

The City is partnering with Lethbridge Polytechnic to monitor the lake throughout the summer and find ways to manage the blooms.

The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.