Water samples from Elk Lake’s Eagle Beach have tested positive for potentially toxic blue-green algae, the Capital Regional District says.
The public is advised to avoid the water and to keep animals from swimming or drinking lake water until a CRD advisory has been lifted.
Blue-green algae usually produce a blue-green sheen that looks like surface scum. It is not always easy to see and there can be toxins present whether or not the sheen is visible.
Ingesting affected water can lead to headaches and abdominal pain in people and lethal liver damage in dogs.
Blue-green algae is a recurring issue at Elk Lake and adjoining Beaver Lake.
Eagle Beach is on the south end of the lake near the Victoria City Rowing Club.
