What should I do if I think I am in the presence of a bloom of blue-green algae?
Anyone who suspects the presence of a bloom is invited to report this immediately to the concerned regional office of one of the following ways:
- At all times: by using the visual statement form and sending it by fax or email to the regional office of the Ministry http://www.mddelcc.gouv.qc.ca/eau/eco_aqua/cyanobacteries/formulaire/formulaire.asp
- During office hours: by calling the regional office (e.g. Outaouais – Gatineau 819 772-3434) and asking for the manager of cyanobacteria file;
- Outside office hours: by contacting Environmental-Emergency at 1 866 694-5454.
How does the Ministry respond?
The MDDELCC conducts a field visit to make observations and take samples. The Ministry will then communicate the information to the municipalities concerned and the person(s) who made the report.
REMEMBER – not all blue green algae is Cyanobacteria or necessarily toxic. However, when in doubt stay out!
(Source: http://www.healthvermont.gov/health-environment/recreational-water/cyanobacteria-blue-green-algae)