Ramsey Lake Algae Watch

What are blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are microscopic bacteria that are usually present in low numbers in water bodies around the world.  Most blue-green algae are harmless to human health, although some species of blue-green algae have the potential to produce toxins, which are released when the cells die. Only laboratory analysis can determine whether or not they are toxic.

What causes an algae bloom?

Certain conditions, including sunlight, warm temperatures, phosphorus and nitrogen, can cause the algae population to multiply rapidly, forming a large mass called a bloom. Blooms can happen at any time of the year, with summer blooms usually occurring after calm, hot weather.

What does a blue-green algae bloom look like?

Blue-green algae blooms most commonly look like bluish-green pea soup, although olive green and red blooms can also occur. When the bloom is very large, the algae may form solid-looking clumps. Fresh blooms may smell like fresh-cut grass, while older blooms may smell like garbage.

What is the Ramsey Lake Algae Watch Program?

Ramsey Lake is a major source of municipal drinking water in Greater Sudbury. In September 2008, there was a blue-green algae bloom on the lake, the cause of which was not determined. In response to the need to better understand blue-green algae in Ramsey Lake, the Nickel District Conservation Authority Drinking Water Source Protection team, in conjunction with Laurentian University, is currently undertaking a two-year monitoring program to assess potential causes of blue-green algae blooms in Ramsey Lake. This trial program will help to track and monitor blooms in Ramsey.

In conjunction with the monitoring program, the Ramsey Lake Algae Watch Program is being launched on a trial basis. This community-based environmental program will provide residents in the Ramsey Lake watershed, who have the ability to keep a watchful eye on changes in lake conditions, with the knowledge required to help monitor Ramsey for blue-green algae blooms. The information provided by residents through this trial program is critical in assisting the researchers in their work and will help them to expand upon knowledge regarding the health of the lake.

What do I do if I want to be a Ramsey Lake Algae Watcher?

1. Select an observation point on your property or a public section of Ramsey Lake that provides you with a clear, unobstructed view of the Lake. Once you have chosen your observation point, contact the Nickel District Conservation Authority at 674-5249 to register as an Algae Watcher or fill out the registration form and email it to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

2. Once a week, at approximately the same time, go to your selected observation point and observe the water conditions. Has the colour changed? Has the smell changed? Do you notice any symptoms of a blue-green algae bloom? Record your observations on the observation sheet.

3. If you suspect there is a blue-green algae bloom, call the Ministry of the Environment at 564-3237 to report the bloom. If your private drinking water system draws directly from Ramsey Lake, avoid using the water and report the bloom.

Have the following information ready when you report a bloom:

• Contact information
• Date potential bloom was noticed and location
• Colour, size, odour and any other relevant information

Can I register as an Algae Watcher for a lake other than Ramsey?

Currently, the Algae Watch Program is a trial program for Ramsey Lake only. Residents who live on other lakes are encouraged to become familiar with the characteristics of a blue-green algae bloom and to monitor their lake for potential problems.

How can I prevent blue-green algae?

The specific factors contributing to last year’s bloom have not been identified, so it’s hard to say specifically how future blue-green algae blooms can be prevented. Some general best management practices for residents living on lakes to follow include: ensuring septic/wastewater systems are properly maintained, avoiding the use of fertilizers, using phosphate-free soaps and household products,  and retaining natural shoreline vegetation to reduce soil erosion.

More tips for lakefront living can be found on the Sudbury Lake Water Quality website.

Should I be concerned about blue-green algae?

Information about the effects of blue-green algae and human health can be obtained from the Sudbury & District Health Unit.
Information about municipal water and wastewater can be obtained from the City of Greater Sudbury.
Some common myths about blooms and cyanobacteria.