Looking to visit the beach? You might want to check up on the water quality before you head out.
As of this past week, Saskatchewan residents can now check the water quality level at local beaches, thanks to the Healthy Beach Monitoring Program. This program collects data to monitor and identify trends in water quality and beach safety.
“By having this information easily accessible, public beach goers can make themselves aware of potential water quality issues and stay safe this summer,” zoonotic/environmental health consultant Nicole White said in a press release. “This will help people make informed decisions about their in-water activities when visiting our lakes. It’s important to note that even if poor water quality is reported at a specific location, people can still enjoy activities such as canoeing, sailing, and boating.”
A total of 67 public swimming areas across Saskatchewan will be monitored. This does not include private beaches.
Water quality issues such as blue-green algae will be noted in the report. Locations will be either be marked as safe, if swimmers should take caution, or if a swimming advisory will be issued.
As of July 8, water quality at Buffalo Pound Provincial Park was listed as safe.
Please note that closures may happen on evenings or weekend and may not be immediately reflected in reports, so follow any notifications posted on the beach.
Reports will be posted online on Mondays until September.
