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...

January 25, 2008

The Journal Pioneer

A resource beyond value
Advisory committee is travelling across the Island this year fishing for public input on how to capitalize on the Island's recreational fisheries

It's enough to cause even seasoned anglers to rub their eyes in disbelief - streams as narrow as a metre holding good-sized trout.

Biologist Daryl Guignion says it's not uncommon for brook trout to spawn in waters shallow enough to expose a fish's fins. Virtually any stretch of flowing water connected to the sea will hold trout.

January 25, 2008
The Guardian

Rec fishery being choked out
Siltation, fish kills, nitrates, habitat destruction and unchecked predation by cormorants among reasons cited for decline over past 10 years

MONTAGUE — Where have all the fish gone?
It’s a question on the minds of anglers and outdoor activists across the province these days and other than the predation of the cormorant, the blame focuses largely on allowing Prince Edward Island watersheds to become toilet bowls.