It’s the time of year when producers are being warned about the dangers of blue-green algae in dugouts.
The toxic bacteria can cause organ damage or even death. Once temperatures reach 25 C, producers should look at the water surface for algae that resembles “blue-green scum, pea soup or grass clippings suspended in the water,” says Shawn Elgert, an agricultural water engineer with the province.
“One rule of thumb is that if you can grab it as a solid mass in your hand, it is not blue-green algae.”
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A copper product can be used for treatment but the dugout water should not be used for up to a month afterwards.
For more info, call 310-FARM (3276) and ask to speak to a water specialist.
