Algal bloom, E. coli advisories at several Manitoba beaches ahead of long weekend

A beach advisory sign is seen at Victoria Beach in Manitoba on August 1, 2025. (Danton Unger/CTV News Winnipeg)

Manitobans are being reminded to check the water conditions at beaches ahead of the long weekend, after high levels of E. coli and algae blooms were reported.

According to the province’s most recent beach report, several Manitoba beaches have tested positive for higher levels of E. coli bacteria, including West Grand Beach on Lake Winnipeg.

The E. coli level was briefly above the acceptable level at Victoria, Lester, East Grand and Patricia beaches when tested on July 22, but returned to acceptable levels on the 24th.

Advisory signs have been posted at the five beaches.

Excess concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus cause algal blooms to form on water, the province noted.

Most beaches monitored by the province were within recreational water quality levels.

The province added algal blooms have been discovered at several beaches, including Brereton Lake South, Lake Minnedosa, Hoopers Lake, Rivers Reservoir, Stephenfield Reservoir, Plum Coulee and Sandy Lake. Signs have been posted to warn visitors.

Manitobans are reminded to avoid swimming in water where algal blooms are visible and to ensure pets don’t drink the water where the blooms are present.