Blue-green algae found in Lake Massawippi

North Hatley's Lake Massawippi is the latest body of water in Quebec to be declared potentially dangerous because of blue-green algae.

Provincial environment officials said they found significant blue-green algae growth in Lake Massawippi on Monday, and have warned local residents not use any water drawn from the lake to drink, wash food or cook.

Residents can bathe with the water unless it smells unusual or has an odd colour, officials said.

But residents in the area with wells can continue with their regular water usage, and swimming and boatingare permitted on Lake Massawippi.

There are now 72 contaminated lakesand rivers in Quebec, according to provincial statistics.

Blue-green algae thrives in hot temperatures and in environments rich in phosphates.Shoreline erosion and faultyseptic tanks can alsopromote the growth of blue-green algae.