Water advisory issued for Chestermere Lake over ‘elevated’ fecal levels

AHS has issued a water quality advisory for over elevated levels of fecal bacteria found in the water.

UPDATE: On Aug. 15, AHS lifted the water qualiity advisory.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a water quality advisory for Chestermere Lake’s Cove Beach over “elevated levels” of fecal bacteria found in the water.

People are asked not to swim or wade in the Cove Beach area, effectively immediately.

AHS says the advisory applies only to Cove Beach and not other beaches, such as Anniversary Park and Sunset Park.

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“At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water at Cove Beach,” warned AHS in a Friday news release. “As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.”

“As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.”

AHS says the advisory will be in place until further notice.  

On it’s website, the City of Chestermere says the beach remains open for “relaxation and recreation.”