Alberta Health Services has issued a water quality advisory for Sturgeon river, due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria present.
The advisory is in place for the area of the river northeast of the Ray Gibbon Drive bridge, downstream in the vicinity of St. Albert, AHS said on their website.
In a news release, the city of St. Albert said it was "working closely" with AHS, and encouraged all individuals to avoid activities involving exposure to the water or shoreline of the Sturgeon River.
The precautions are as follows:
- Do not consume fish from the river and refrain from using river water for consumption, even if it's been treated.
- Do not swim or wade (or allow your pets to swim or wade) at the area of the river identified.
- Members of the public who are using boats, including kayaks and canoes, are encouraged to avoid as much contact with river water as possible. Rinse off after any recreational activity and wash your hands thoroughly as soon as possible.
As part of its environmental programming, the city conducts regular river sampling.
Recent river testing results showed high levels of bacteria from a variety of sources, including "beaver muskrat, canine, cattle, birds and humans," the city said in its news release."
"In the spring, increased flows can carry bacteria from upstream areas in the watershed which can contribute to what is seen in the river in our city," the release said. "The City is looking into our storm and sanitary systems to ensure the small amounts of human bacteria found are not a result of City operations."
In February, a small sewage release occurred in a separate downstream area within St. Albert due to a clogged sewer pipe. The City said it immediately notified Alberta Environment and AHS, but the Government deemed there was minimal risk to the public as the river was frozen.
Bacterial testing is continuing weekly until levels are seen to decline. AHS Public Health Inspectors continue to monitor the situation.
