Water Quality Advisory: Blue-Green Algae Bloom (Silver Lake, North Shoreline)
MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, September 25, 2026 – The Township of Muskoka Lakes is advising residents and visitors that the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (“SMDHU”) has issued a water quality advisory for Silver Lake (North Shoreline), in Port Carling, due to the confirmed presence of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria).
Blue-green algae can produce toxins that may pose health risks to people and pets. Conditions on the water can change quickly; blooms may appear, move, or dissipate with wind and weather. The Township will continue to share updates from SMDHU as they become available.
Key Information
What should I do if I spot blue-green algae?
- If you're not sure, stay out!
- Assume toxins are present whenever you see a bloom.
- Stay out of the water and keep pets away.
- Wash with soap and clean water right after exposure.
- Contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms after being in water with blue-green algae.
- Report suspected blooms to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). Incidents can be reported online or by phone (see contact below).
If your private water supply may be affected by a bloom:
- Do not drink the water or use it for cooking or baby formula.
- Use bottled water or another safe source.
- Do not boil the water. Boiling does not remove toxins and can increase them.
- Avoid using chemicals like herbicides, copper sulphate, or algaecides which can release more toxins.
For more information, visit the SMDHU website here: Blue-Green Algae
Current Advisories: For the most up-to-date information on current waterways affected by blue-green algae, please visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s webpage: Blue-Green Algae
Contact: For information on the potential health risks associated with blue-green algal blooms, please contact Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or toll-free at 1-877-721-7520 to speak with a public health inspector.
Report suspected blooms to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). Incidents can be reported online or by phone:
- 416-325-3000
- Toll-free: 1-800-268-6060
- TTY: 1-855-889-5775
Note: This advisory on muskokalakes.ca will be updated in accordance with information provided by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.
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For general, media or accessibility inquiries, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca
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