The Capital Regional District has extended its blue-green algae alert for a popular lake in Saanich.
The alert, which was first announced on Oct. 16, 2023, remains in effect for Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park some five months after it was initially issued.
On March 19, the CRD said recent testing of water at the park found an unsafe level of the algae.
The algae usual produces a visible blue-green sheen on the surface of the water. However, it can still be present if no sheen is visible.
“Visitors are advised to avoid contact with blue-green algae and to keep animals on a leash to prevent them from drinking or swimming in the lake until the advisory has been lifted,” said the CRD in its update on Tuesday.
Blue-green algae can cause lethal liver damage in dogs, as well as a range of symptoms in humans, including headaches and abdominal pain.
Adam Chan
