The Wildwood Reservoir at the Wildwood Conservation Area south of Stratford has been posted as Unsafe For Swimming.
The Perth District Health Unit and Southwestern Public Health are advising that a bloom of blue-green algae has been detected in Wildwood Reservoir.
That algae can produce toxins which may be harmful to health through direct contact or consumption. Toxins can stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone.
Until further notice, residents and visitors should take the following precautions: - Avoid swimming or other activities that involve direct contact with the water in Wildwood Reservoir (note that children are more vulnerable to the toxins produced by the algae than adults) - Do not allow pets to swim in or drink from the water - Thoroughly wash any area of exposure with clean water and soap, in case of accidental exposure to the water - Do not eat fish caught in Wildwood Reservoir.
Drinking water supplies from wells in the area have not been affected by this algae bloom as blooms are not a concern for groundwater drinking supplies.
Both Health Units are working with staff from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to monitor the water at Wildwood Reservoir.