Chocolate Lake beach closed, toxic algae bloom confirmed at Cunard Lake

Chocolate LakeBeachis closed to swimming until further notice as the municipality tests samples to see if a toxin-producing algae is present in the water, according the Halifax Regional Municipality.

People are advised to avoid any contact with the lake water, and that warning extends to pets,since a bloom is suspected.

Thepopular spot is one of three beaches in the municipalitynow closed.

Cunard Lake Beach on Williams Lake in Spryfieldwas shut downon Aug. 10 for a suspected bloom, and lab tests confirmed the presence of blue-green algae, said Klara Needler, a spokesperson from the municipality.

Even after the bloom appears to be gone, the toxins can remain in the water.Needlersaid the risk advisory for the lake will be in place until the toxin levels falls to within Health Canada's guidelines.

The municipality maintains a list of the status of supervised beaches, where staff regularly test the water quality.

Oakfield Park Beachhas been closed since June 16 following the discovery of blue-green algae in Grand Lake.

KinapBeach on West Porters Lake was closed on Aug. 5 due to high bacteria levels in the water. The beach hassince reopened.

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