MacLure's Pond, in Murray River PEI, has been closed to swimming and fishing, as reported in CBC. The Dept of Environment reports that high levels of cyano-bacteria or commonly called blue-green algae, are occurring in the pond. The CBC report seems to indicate that the high summer temperatures are responsible, however, many other ponds are just as warm, yet not experiencing algae blooms. I'm sure the golf course surrounding the west end of the pond has nothing to do with it. Although warm temperatures are a factor in algae blooms, nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus play an important role as well. Just sayin...

While we are at it, why is there a 1000' bridge going across the pond ?

A bloom of blue-green algae has closed MacLure's Pond near Murray River to swimming and fishing.

The province has posted signs warning people of the problem. The Cyanobacteria algae can make humans and animals sick.

"When it gets to heavy enough growth, there is a toxin that's released from the blue-green algae," said deputy chief health officer Dr. Lamont Sweet.

"This toxin is irritating to the eyes if a person is in the water. And if they swallow the water, it is irritating to the stomach. There can be nausea, vomiting, there can be stomach cramps and diarrhea at times, if a person ingests enough of the water."

Algae closes Murray River pond
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/prince-edward-island/story/2010/08/23/pei-algae...