On Tuesday, September 8, the Municipality of Casselman announced that approximately 10 days previously, it was informed by South Nation Conservation of the presence of blue-green algae in the South Nation River, upstream from Casselman, in Crysler and Chesterville. Casselman is the only municipality that draws its water from the South Nation River.
Since South Nation Conservation informed the municipality of the presence of blue-green algae at the Crysler Dam, the Municipality of Casselman has established a special committee to monitor the progress of the issue.
The municipality is acting proactively to limit risks and protect the health and well-being of the Casselman community.
The municipality is doing everything possible to prevent blue-green algae from infiltrating the water treatment system. If this occurs, procedures to protect the public will be put in place.
The following measures could be implemented by the municipality if these algae ever appear in the water protection zone:
• Shut off the water supply to the water treatment plant. Water would be trucked in from the Wendover and Lefaivre treatment plants to fill our treated water basin and provide the public with drinking water.
OR
• Issue a non-usage order and provide drinking water to residents.
Blue-green algae is a problem in drinking water because it can produce toxins that are dangerous to health, give the water a bad taste and odor, and make it much more difficult to treat.
Contaminated water can be used to flush toilets. Any physical contact can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat.
For now, Casselman’s water is safe to drink, and it can be used for everyday needs.
“Our residents have asked us to communicate more with them regarding water issues. We have heard them. It’s true that there is no danger at the moment, but there is always a risk. We want residents to be aware of the steps we are taking behind the scenes to protect them and ensure a safe drinking water supply,” said Casselman Mayor Geneviève Lajoie.
The Municipality of Casselman is encouraging residents to have their 72-hour emergency kit on hand. A list of recommended contents is available on the Canadian Red Cross website.
