Concannon lake added to Kansas blue-green algae list
High levels of toxic blue-green algae have been detected in five Kansas counties.
Blue-green algae generally grows in lakes, ponds and slow-moving streams, especially when the water is warm. The algae often looks like spilled green paint.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment added Concannon State Fishing Lake in Finney County to its list of blue-green algae warning sites since last week.
The following areas remain under warning: Brown County State Fishing Lake, Chisholm Creek Park Lake in Sedgwick County, Lovewell Reservoir in Jewell County and Memorial Park Lake in Benton County.
The department lifted warnings for Marion County and Rooks County since last week.
A statement from the Department of Health and Environment said that boating and fishing are safe on lakes under a warning, but that people and pets should avoid contact with the water.
“Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable,” the statement said. “They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment.”
To report an algal bloom, call 785-296-1664. To read more about the blue-green algae warning, visit http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/.
Reach Gabriella Dunn at 316-268-6400 or gdunn@wichitaeagle.com. Follow her on Twitter: @gabriella_dunn.
Blue-green algae tips
▪ Lake water is not good to drink for pets or livestock
▪ Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans
▪ Water contact should be avoided
▪ Fish can be eaten as long as they are rinsed with clean water; consume only the fillet portion, and discard all other parts
▪ Do not allow pets to eat dried algae
▪ If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible
▪ Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation
Source: Kansas Department of Health and Environment
This story was originally published July 9, 2015 at 4:59 PM with the headline "Concannon lake added to Kansas blue-green algae list."