Heading to the Lake this 4th of July? Beware of Toxic Algae Blooms
Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019 -- 7:42 AM
(WRN) -If you're heading out to your favorite lake for the summer, be on the lookout for toxic algae blooms.If you're heading out to your favorite lake for the summer, be on the lookout for toxic algae blooms. Gina LaLiberte with the DNR says blue-green algae can pop up on many lakes or rivers during the summer.
"Blue-green Algae are buoyant, so calm weather allows them to float to the surface where they can form surface scum, which we refer to as blooms."
LaLiberte with the DNR says those 'blue-green' algae that cause the blooms can sicken people and cause skin irritation.
"Any time you see discolored water that can be green or other colors, or you see foamy scums or mats, be suspicious that's blue-green algae. And look for better water conditions elsewhere for swimming."
LaLiberte with the DNR says it's very important to keep pets out of the water if there's blooms, because of the toxic quality of some algae.
"Dogs really don't care what the water looks like. If they're thirsty they'll drink even scummy green water that we would not even want to put our feet into."
The algae forms any time there's high temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and little wind.
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