What appears to be blue-green algae is apparently killing fish and leaving Forest Pond and the scheduled Salmon Cove River in Conception Bay North a milky green colour.
While testing is underway, the Town of Salmon Cove is asking the public to stay out of the water in and around Salmon Cove.
Area residents are shocked at what they’re seeing and are demanding answers.
Blue-green algae is actually a form of bacteria. The microscopic bacteria are natural and found in water bodies all over the world, but become visible under certain conditions that create an imbalance that causes it to bloom. Blue-green algae can kill fish by reducing oxygen levels in the water and can also create a toxin that can kill fish and wildlife if ingested in large amounts.
The Department of Environment and Climate Change is investigating along with DFO. Officials from both the provincial and federal governments have taken samples to determine the cause of the discolouration and the potential source of the problem.
The results are due back later this week.
Previous Story: Water at Salmon Cove Sands Closed as Officials Investigate Discoloured Water
