RM of Hoodoo issues update after reported algae bloom, dead fish in Wakaw Lake

Wakaw Lake has had issues with blue-green algae for decades, due in part to its shallow depth and phosphorus-rich waters.

The lake experienced a big bloom in August 2011 which was thoroughly studied. The findings were released in 2012 as part of the 282-page Wakaw Lake Lakeshore Development Study. Researchers found that blue-green algae dominated the lake and that the tiny organisms that normally feed on algae (microzooplankton) declined, limiting the lake’s natural ability to control the bloom.

The bloom at Wakaw Lake was part of a series of notable blue-green algae blooms across the province that summer, leading the Saskatchewan government to expand and formalize its public water monitoring. Today, the province’s Healthy Beaches Program keeps residents aware of current beach conditions around most, if not, all lakes in Saskatchewan, monitoring for bacteria and investigating potential blue-green algae blooms.

Residents with concerns regarding algae blooms can contact the SPHA directly at 306-232-9645.

As for the dead fish, the RM said fish kills happen naturally and are relatively common in Saskatchewan lakes. They added that the presence of dead fish does not automatically mean there is a harmful algae bloom, and that further investigation is required before confirming fish deaths are connected to algae.

The RM of Hoodoo is asking residents with concerns to contact the Saskatchewan Public Health Association directly. They also urge residents to take photos of any water conditions, algae blooms, or fish mortality concerns and to document the location to help Public Health during future assessments.

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loganc.lehmann@pattisonmedia.com

by Logan Lehmann

RM of Hoodoo issues update after reported algae bloom, dead fish in Wakaw Lake

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