Blue-Green Algae Advisory on Kahshe Lake

On September 8th, blue-green algae was confirmed along the northwest shoreline of Kahshe Lake. These algae can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals. Since you can’t tell if a bloom is toxic just by looking at it, please avoid using the water for drinking or cooking, and keep pets away.

Swimming, bathing, or showering in areas of the lake not visibly affected by algae blooms is not expected to cause health issues. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit will provide updates once testing confirms that toxins are no longer present. Learn more here.

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are naturally occurring organisms that can multiply quickly in warm, slow-moving, nutrient-rich water. Blooms are most common in late summer and early fall. We can all help protect the lake by:

• Maintaining septic systems properly
• Avoiding fertilizer use
• Preserving natural shorelines to filter runoff

Together, we can reduce nutrient levels and help keep Kahshe Lake healthy.

If you see a possible bloom, please remember you can report it directly from the Algal Alerts section on the KBLA website.