The Halifax Regional Municipality has closed Oakfield Beach to swimming after they found blue-green algae bloom in the area. The algae (also known as cyanobacteria) can produce toxins that are harmful to people and pets. The algae grow in freshwater environments with calm and warm weather. The beach, located in the Oakfield Provincial Park, is now closed for recreational use. “People who come in contact with blue-green algae blooms or ingest water containing blue-green algae blooms may experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea,” a news release from the municipality reads. The municipality has also issued water quality advisories for Kearney Lake Beach and Long Pond Beach in Halifax, along with Springfield Beach in Sackville. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
