Water conditions

Planning a day at the beach? Water conditions can change throughout the season and may affect your health and enjoyment of the lakes in the park. Learn more about the water quality concerns that may impact swimming and other recreational activities and follow any posted advisories in day use areas and important bulletins.

If you observe or become aware of potential safety risks listed below, please report it to the Visitor Centre in person or at 306-663-4522.

Swimmer’s itch

Swimmer’s itch (water rash) is a temporary skin irritation that can occur after swimming.

Symptoms

• Tingling or prickling sensation shortly after leaving the water
• Small red spots on exposed skin
• Itchy rash that may develop within a few hours

Severity varies depending on individual sensitivity and exposure.

Prevention

• Dry off thoroughly with a towel immediately after swimming
• Shower in fresh, warm water as soon as possible
• Avoid swimming in areas where swimmer’s itch is common, especially near aquatic plants

Treatment

Swimmer’s itch usually resolves on its own. To relieve itching:

• Use topical anti-itch creams or antihistamines available at most pharmacies
• Apply a baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with water)
• Take a warm bath with baking soda

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria)

Blue-green algae are naturally occurring organisms commonly found in lakes throughout Saskatchewan. Algae growth is most common during periods of calm, warm weather in the areas of lakes with shallow, slow-moving water. Some forms can be toxic if ingested.

Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in humans may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea
• Skin and eye irritation
• Sore throat
• Swollen lips.

Symptoms usually don’t last for more than two or three days. While there are no recorded deaths in humans as a result of contact with blue-green algae, it has been fatal to dogs and cattle who have ingested the toxin.

When blue-green algae may be present, visitors are advised to avoid:

• drinking from or allow your pets to drink the affected water source
• swimming or allowing your pets to swim or wade in affected water source
• with blue-green algae dried on the shorelines.

Watch for important bulletins and signs posted in day use areas that will alert you to the possible presence of high concentrations of harmful organisms in the water.