07/31/2026
If your dog is a water loving pup, be aware of Cyanobacteria outbreaks. 🦠
I just came across this warning. ⚠️
*New Brunswick Reports 10 Confirmed Cyanobacteria Bloom Locations*
New Brunswick health officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant around lakes, rivers and other waterways after confirming cyanobacteria blooms at 10 locations across the province so far in 2026.
Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae and sometimes referred to as "pond scum," is a naturally occurring organism found in many ponds, lakes, rivers and wetlands throughout New Brunswick. Blooms typically develop when temperatures rise in late spring and early summer and can appear quickly under favourable conditions.
According to the Province of New Brunswick, seven locations have experienced confirmed surface blooms this year, including Darlings Lake, Grand Lake, Irishtown Nature Park, the Kennebecasis River from Kennebecasis Island to Darlings Island, Lake Herkert in Hanwell, Lake Utopia and Washademoak Lake.
Two locations have reported benthic mats, including the Kouchibouguacis River from Pont du Milieu to Cameron Mills Road and the Nashwaak River at Ryan's Brook confluence.
The Saint John River, from Woodstock to Oromocto, has recorded both benthic mats and surface blooms.
While not all cyanobacteria are harmful, some species produce toxins that can pose health risks to both people and animals. Exposure to these toxins may cause skin, eye and throat irritation, while swallowing contaminated water can lead to more serious health effects, including gastrointestinal illness.
Officials note that waterways with a history of cyanobacteria blooms are at greater risk of experiencing future blooms. In addition, toxins can remain in the water for several weeks after visible blooms have disappeared.
Residents are encouraged to continue enjoying New Brunswick's lakes and rivers while taking appropriate precautions. Health officials recommend always supervising children and pets near the water, checking for visible surface blooms, scum or benthic mats before swimming, and avoiding contact with affected areas. People should also avoid entering the water with open cuts or wounds and should wash their hands before eating.
Water from areas affected by cyanobacteria should never be used for drinking, cooking or washing, as boiling does not remove the toxins. Drinking water should always come from a clean and safe source.
Anglers are advised that fish caught from waters where cyanobacteria blooms are present should have all internal organs removed and be thoroughly rinsed with clean drinking water before cooking and eating.
Even when no visible blooms are present, health officials recommend showering with clean water after swimming, as toxins may persist in the water for weeks after a bloom is no longer visible.
Anyone who develops symptoms after exposure to potentially contaminated water is advised to seek medical advice from a health-care provider.
To report possible Cyanobacteria for testing see the GNB website - https://www.gnb.ca/en/topic/laws-safety/health-environment-advisories/cyanobacteria.html
Photo Source: GNB
