Blue-green algae spotted at GRCA properties [Video]

A potentially dangerous type of bacteria has been seen at several Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) properties.

According to a release from the GRCA on Friday, blue-green algae was spotted at Belwood Lake, Conestogo Lake, Guelph Lake and Woolwich reservoirs.

Signs have been put up warning the public of the possible dangers.

Blue-green algae blooms are types of bacteria known as cyanobacteria. They are microscopic plant-like organism that occur naturally in lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and other bodies of water.

The algae thrives in water that is shallow, slow moving and warm.

When the algal blooms first start to grow the water may have a noticeable green or brown scum along the surface and the water may look green or like bluish-green pea soup.

Once the blooms are fully formed, they may look like spilled paint along the shoreline.

The algae often smells like fresh cut grass at first, while …