Toxic blue-green algae in Lake Afton and three other bodies of water
The state has detected high levels of toxic blue-green algae in Lake Afton and three other bodies of water around Kansas, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
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 four areas under warning are Lake Afton in Sedgwick County, Central Park Lake in Shawnee County, Marion Reservoir in Marion County (but not Marion County Lake) and Milford Reservoir in Dickson and Geary counties.
The health department said it strongly discourages wading, skiing and swimming in waters under blue-green algae warnings. But it said boating and fishing are safe if people and pets avoid contact with the water.
“Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable,” the department said in a statement. “They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment.”
Pets that swim in or drink water with an algal bloom, or that eat dried algae along the shore, may become seriously ill or die.
The state says it’s safe to eat fish caught during blue-green algae outbreaks, as long as the fish are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed. People should wash their hands after handling the fish.
To report an algal bloom, call 785-296-1664. To read more about the blue-green algae warning, visit www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/.
Gabriella Dunn: 316-268-6400, @gabriella_dunn
Tips to avoid blue-green algae
▪ Pets and livestock should not drink lake water.
▪ People should never consume lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status.
▪ Water contact should be avoided.
▪ Fish can be eaten as long as it’s rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is used.
▪ 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 June 30, 2016 at 5:51 PM with the headline "Toxic blue-green algae in Lake Afton and three other bodies of water."