WHEREAS blue-green alga (technically know as cyanobacteria) can produce toxins which can be dangerous to both humans and animals; and

WHEREAS a mass-reproduction of cyanobacteria can result in algal blooms throughout a watershed; and

WHEREAS the Carleton Watershed located in Yarmouth County has experienced increasingly frequent, intensive and persistent blue-green alga (cyanobacteria) blooms over the past several years; and

WHEREAS the occurrence of high amounts of cyanobacteria has resulted in the limited use of recreational activities within the Carleton watershed including discontinuing water activities of the local YMCA Camp; and

WHEREAS similar occurrences of the presence of high amounts of cyanobacteria and resulting blue-green algae have been evidenced in other watersheds in the province;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UNSM actively lobby the Province to devise a specific comprehensive strategy to identify, investigate and document problem watersheds and sub-watersheds; develop a contingency plan to reclaim these nutrient enriched (loaded) waterways in order to restore their recreational value and protect sensitive habit, and these valuable freshwater assets in our province for future generations.

Liz A. Smith-Doucette
Executive Assisstant
PO Box 21 HEBRON NS B0W 1X0
Tele: 902.742.7159   Fax: 902.742.3164
Email: liz@district.yarmouth.ns.ca