*On July 14, AHS released an advisory stating there was also blue-green algae detected on Lower Mann Lake, which is located near Upper Mann Lake.
COUNTY OF ST. PAUL - A blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) advisory has been issued for Upper Mann Lake, as of Friday afternoon.
Residents living near the shores of this lake, as well as visitors to this lake, are advised to take precautions. Upper Mann Lake is located north of St. Paul, near Highway 28.
It is recommended that people avoid all contact with blue-green algae blooms, and if contact occurs, wash with tap water as soon as possible. Do not wade or swim in any areas were the algae is visible, and do not let pets swim or wade in the water.
"As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any recreational body of water, including Upper Mann Lake, at any time," according to the notice from Alberta Health Services. Boiling of this water will not remove the toxins produced by blue-green algae.
"Blue-green algae is naturally occurring, and often becomes visible when weather conditions are calm. Appearing like scum, grass clippings, fuzz or globs on the surface of water, blue-green algae can be blue-green, greenish-brown, brown, and/or pinkish-red, and often smell musty or grassy," according to AHS.
Weather and wind conditions can cause algae blooms to move from one location in the lake to another, so the advisory will remain in effect for Upper Mann Lake until further notice.
Areas of the lake where algae blooms aren't visible can still be used for recreational purposes.
If you suspect a problem related to blue-green algae or if you require further information on health concerns and blue-green algae, please call Health Link at 811.