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Lake Niapenco Closure

On August 14, 2017, a blue-green algae bloom was detected in the Binbrook Reservoir (Lake Niapenco) by the City of Hamilton Public Health Department. The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Area is restricting public access to Lake Niapenco through Binbrook Conservation Area.

Blue-green algae (also known as cyanobacteria) are naturally occurring microscopic organisms found in fresh, brackish, or marine water. Under certain conditions such as warm water temperatures and high nutrient loads, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly and create blooms.

Cyanoblooms can occur in Canada at any time of year but are more common in summer or early fall. They can appear as a blue sheen, scum, mats, or foam on the water’s surface, and may be red, brown, green, or blue.

Cyanobacteria can produce cyanotoxins, high concentrations of which are harmful to animal and human health, in both drinking and recreational water. Not all cyanobacteria species produce toxins, but every bloom should be treated as toxic until known otherwise. As the safety of the public is the NPCA’s primary concern, the Binbrook Reservoir has been closed for public access until the water is deemed safe by the City of Hamilton Public Health Department.

This algae bloom does not affect the operation of the splash pad or the park’s potable water system. The Binbrook Conservation Area will remain open for patrons to enjoy the park’s other land-based amenities.

Visitors are encouraged to contact the park directly at 905-692-3228.

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