For immediate release: 7/5/11

GRDA continues daily monitoring, sampling efforts for BGA

Langley – As it did throughout the July 4 weekend, the Grand River Dam Authority continues to monitor the waters of Grand Lake. The GRDA Ecosystems Management Department is also taking daily water samples, in an effort to stay up-to-date on the lake’s blue green algae (BGA) presence.

While the public is still very much encouraged to enjoy activities in the Grand Lake area, GRDA continues to strongly warn against recreational activities that involve bodily contact with Grand Lake waters. Also, be very cautious when using fish cleaning stations and watering lawns with lake water.

BGA are microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams, usually in low numbers. However, the algae can become abundant in shallow, warm water that receives heavy sunlight. While most BGA are not toxic, toxins can be produced in some algae blooms. That is what has occurred on Grand Lake.

GRDA will continue with its daily monitoring and sampling efforts indefinitely, as long as conditions warrant. 

More information on BGA is available by following the links on grda.com. GRDA will also update the site with the latest information when available.

Grand River Dam Authority News Release

Contact: Justin Alberty
Corporate Communications Director
Grand River Dam Authority
(918) 256 5545
jalberty@grda.com
www.grda.com