Notice: Suspected harmful algal bloom, Tea Lake
The Severn Sound Environmental Association (SSEA) has advised that conditions visually consistent with a potential blue-green algae bloom were observed throughout Tea Lake during monitoring on September 3, 2026. SSEA has been monitoring the lake from May through September as part of its ongoing water quality program.
Blue-green algae blooms can appear and disappear quickly and may move to different areas of a lake depending on wind and weather conditions.
What residents should do
Residents should treat any discoloured water, surface scum, or accumulations that look like green paint, hair or grass clippings as a potential blue-green algae bloom.
If you see water that may be affected:
- avoid contact with the water
- keep children and pets away from affected areas
- do not use water from affected areas for drinking or cooking
Report a suspected bloom
Suspected blue-green algae blooms can be reported to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) through the provincial pollution reporting system or by calling 1-866-MOE-TIPS (1-866-663-8477).
Residents can also check the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) website for confirmed and posted blue-green algae blooms. For information about potential health risks, contact Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or toll-free at 1-877-721-7520.
About monitoring and confirmation
SSEA can assess whether conditions are visually consistent with a blue-green algae bloom; however, official reporting, confirmation of suspected blooms and toxin testing are handled by MECP. Public health guidance and notifications are provided by SMDHU.
Residents who observe a suspected bloom can also submit their observations through SSEA’s Smart Water Watch citizen science program.
Learn more about algae and view current SSEA monitoring results at severnsound.ca.
Additional details are also available on the Severn Sound Environmental Association website on the All About Algae page, and includes information about causes, prevention, and what to do if you suspect a bloom.
Contact us
Customer Care Team
Phone: 705-325-2315
Email: customercare@severn.ca
Received by the Township of Severn via email from the SSEA on September 4, 2026.
Note: Images are provided for example only, and are not of the suspected bloom.
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