A beach at Gatineau Park's Meech Lake has been closed after a bloom of blue-green algae was found near the edge of the beach, the National Capital Commission said Friday afternoon.

Blue-green algae, also known as "pond scum," can range in colour from olive-green to red and produce toxins that can cause health risks to both humans and animals.

O'Brien Beach was closed after the bloom of cynobacteria was reported for health and safety reasons, the NCC said in a media release.

Blanchet Beach at Meech Lake and the beaches at lakes Philippe and La PĂȘche are still open to swimmers.