KDHE
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.
A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water.
Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1163.
ACTIVE ADVISORIES
WARNING
Ford County Lake, Ford County
Gathering Pond, Geary County
Hain SFL, Ford County
Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County
Louisburg Old Lake (City Lake), Miami County
Milford Lake Zone B, Geary County
Milford Lake Zone C, Geary and Clay County
WATCH
Carbondale City Lake (Strowbridge), Osage County
Crystal Lake, Anderson County
Lake Scott State Park, Scott County
Marion Reservoir, Marion County (Lowered on August 4)
Melvern Outlet (River) Pond, Osage County
Norton Lake, Norton County
LIFTED
Milford Lake Zone A, Dickinson and Geary Counties
KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.
If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.
For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAB.