Gilmour Point Beach in Battersea Temporarily Unsafe for Swimming

Friday, August 23, 2026 – South Frontenac staff have identified a potential algae bloom at Gilmour Point Beach on Dog Lake in Battersea. While waiting for confirmation from the Kingston District Office of the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, the Township has closed the beach, located at 1763 Wellington St. Battersea, to the public. Day camp attendees will participate in land only activities until the Township has been notified that the water is safe for public swimming.

Daily water samples will be collected and submitted to the Ministry’s laboratory for testing. The beach will be re-opened once the Township has been notified that the water is safe for public swimming.

Blue-green algae blooms (sometimes called "pond scum") are large masses of a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria grow in warm, shallow, or slow-moving water, especially if the water has been contaminated with fertilizer, sewage or phosphate soap. Certain species of blue-green algae can produce toxins that are referred to as cyanobacterial toxins or cyanotoxins.

In addition to no swimming, residents are encouraged to avoid entering or using lake water near the bloom, as well as restricting pet and livestock access to the water near the bloom. Human health effects from contact with these toxins may include itchy, irritated eyes and skin from direct contact, and if large quantities of the toxins are swallowed, flu-like symptoms, such as headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Health related inquiries should be referred to your family physician or the Southeast Public Health (SEPH).

Signage warning against swimming will be posted at the beach to communicate the potential health risk that current conditions pose. Residents with additional questions can contact Tim Laprade, Manager of Facilities and Solid Waste, at 613-376-3027 or via email at pwsupport@southfrontenac.net.

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