Updated: Water quality advisory issued for Big Lake

EDMONTON – Due to potentially elevated levels of fecal bacteria that are likely present in the water at Big Lake in Edmonton Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS), AHS continues to advise the public not to engage in any activities that would involve exposure to the water or shoreline of Big Lake. This advisory was initially issued on January 19, 2023 due to sewage run-off that entered the lake and its shoreline after a pipeline carrying wastewater ruptured.

Elevated levels of fecal bacteria may continue to be present at the spill site and surrounding area on the south shore. While it is currently unclear how far the run off may extend along the shoreline, the site of the spill was near Range Road 261 at Lakeshore Estates.

At these suspected levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water from Big Lake. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.

As we enter the spring months and the lake begins to thaw, visitors to Big Lake are advised to take the following precautions:

• Do not consume fish from the lake and refrain from using lake water for consumption, even if it’s been treated.
• Do not swim or wade (or allow your pets to swim or wade) at the site of the spill.
• Members of the public who are using boats, including kayaks and canoes, are encouraged to avoid as much contact with lake water as possible. Rinse off after any recreational activity and wash your hands thoroughly as soon as possible.

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 Public Health Inspectors continue to monitor the situation.

Anyone with concerns about their health is encouraged to call Health Link at 811 or speak with a family physician. Anyone with questions or concerns about this incident in particular, or the water in their area in general, can reach out to the Environmental Public Health team: ahs.ca/eph or call 1-833-476-4743.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait-times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.