Cobourg – Pine Pollen in Lake Ontario Appears as Foaming Yellow Scum
The Town of Cobourg’s Environmental Service’s Department would like to inform citizens that pine pollen is currently visible on the shorelines of Lake Ontario during the months of June and July and is not harmful.
Most common during the month of June, the accumulation of a mustard yellow scum on inland lakes and along the shores and bays of Lake Ontario is caused when pine pollen from surrounding forests is blown into the water by high winds. This is a natural phenomenon that occurs in most of Northern Ontario where a forest ecosystem is prevalent.
This pine pollen should not be mistaken for algae, spilled paint or petroleum and is not harmful nor does it pose a health risk. The pine pollen will eventually decompose or become trapped in the sediment along the shoreline.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love