North Ski Area gets hit with algae bloom

The North Ski Area is a bright green after high water temperatures and other factors led to the algae bloom breakout. The area, as did the rest of the lake, received an aluminum sulfate (alum) application in April and will receive another in October.

The Lake Elsinore & San Jacinto Watersheds Authority, which monitors the water quality of the lake, said algae blooms are a natural response to high temperatures in Canyon Lake and other marine ecosystems worldwide.

“We recognize the community’s concerns surrounding the recent algae blooms in the North Ski Area,” Rachel M. Gray, LESJWA Administrator, said. “We take an on-going and proactive approach at minimizing algae blooms from occurring through bi-annual aluminum sulfate applications to ensure the overall health of Canyon Lake. A fall application of alum is planned in early October for Canyon Lake.”

Despite the bi-annual alum treatments, Rachel said algae blooms can occur as the water column reaches high temperatures and cannot always be avoided.

The Canyon Lake Property Owners Association is responsible for managing recreational aspects of the lake, overseeing lake warnings and closures, if necessary, during algae bloom events, and prioritizing public safety.

Photo by Dave Guthery

“LESJWA is working in collaboration with the Canyon Lake POA, the City of Canyon Lake, and Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District to monitor the current bloom,” Rachel said.