City warns of blue-green algae blooms in Regina’s retention ponds

Blue-green algae could be blooming in Regina’s retention ponds, and the city is warning people – and pets – to stay away.

According to the city, a lack of rain and higher-than-average temperatures have created perfect conditions for blooms of the harmful algae on city ponds, and staff are monitoring the situation with regular testing.

“These blooms create toxins that are potentially harmful to pets, children and adults,” the city said in a statement.

“For this reason, the City urges citizens to stay out of the water and away from algae at retention ponds.”

If a pet enters a pond where algae is blooming, the city advised washing the animal’s paws to ensure it doesn’t ingest the algae when grooming.

Retention ponds are part of the city’s drainage system, designed to collect rainfall and runoff to minimize the risk of flooding and property damage.