The province of Saskatchewan and the Water Security Agency issuing an advisory this week regarding blue-green algae.

The bacteria is often found in lakes and should not be ingested or even swam in. 

"It's a general advisory. Historically, blue-green algae tends to be more prevalent in the southern half of the province," said Ron Podbielski, the Communications Manager for the Water Security Agency. "However, we really need to have that notice go out across the province." 

Podbielski added it's always a good idea to check out the water before you jump in. Swimming in an infested body of water can cause rashes, sore throat, cramps and even diarrhea. 

It's a pretty easy bacteria to spot on the water. 

"It will have a bit of that blueish-green tone to it. It looks a bit murky, a bit like pea soup," Podbielski noted. "Sometimes it can even be a bit tannish looking. Usually, you can also notice a bad rotten egg smell."

The recent hot and humid conditions have been the perfect storm to see the rise of blue-green algae. It grows best in stagnant water and typically where it's shallow. 

It's a problem not only for swimmers at public beaches and lakes, but for producers as well. Their livestock may be drinking infected water out of sloughs or ponds. 

Podbielski stated it's quite a common problem in the province. 

"Saskatchewan has this combination of extremely hot and sunny weather in July and we have water bodies that are rich in phosphorus and nitrogen. Those two conditions generally are very favourable for blue-green algae," he explained. "Typically, we do this notice every year." 

He said a great resource to check in on the water quality of a lake you plan on visiting is the new 'Healthy Beaches' program. It's a brand new initiative started by the province this summer to let the public be more aware of water quality around the province. 

You can check out the latest data here. 

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