Watch Out for Algal Blooms on Lakes this Weekend

Wednesday, June 28th, 2023 -- 8:00 AM

(Ashley Byrd, WRN) Anyone planning to swim in Wisconsin lakes this 4th of July Weekend should be on the lookout for algal blooms.

The Lincoln County health department says those blooms are masses of bacteria that form in open water thanks to warm temperatures, little wind, and a little agricultural runoff like fertilizers. It's sometimes called "Blue-Green Algae" but it can come in any color, and is characterized by thick, soupy waters.

The bacteria can make you sick, and can seriously injure pets like dogs who might lick themselves clean after getting in the bloom.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.