AHS warns of elevated fecal matter in Lac La Biche lake

Due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria currently present in the water of Camper’s Beach in Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park, located on Lac La Biche lake, within the North Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS), AHS is advising the public not to swim or wade in this beach area, effective immediately.

Elevated levels of fecal bacteria were detected via testing of the lake water at this beach location. At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water at Camper’s Beach. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.

As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

AHS Environmental Public Health officers will continue to monitor the water at Camper’s Beach area.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.