Blue-green algae advisory issued for Dixon ditch in South Bend, tributary to Kankakee
SOUTH BEND — The St. Joseph County Department of Health issued a blue-green algae advisory on Monday for algal toxins in the Dixon West Place Ditch, a major tributary to the Kankakee River. That is based on water samples collected Aug. 26 in the city of South Bend’s retention pond on West Calvert Street.
The health department warns people and animals to avoid any contact with any algae blooms, floating scum and discolored water. That means no drinking, swimming or boating in or eating shellfish from waters with a visible bloom. It’s safe to eat filleted fish caught in in such waters if you rinse the fish with tap water, throw out the guts and cook the fish well.
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Exposure to blue-green algae can cause skin or eye irritation or diarrhea and vomiting if ingested. The health department advises you to seek medical attention for these symptoms.
Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria in freshwater environments, often spurred by sunny days, warm or still water and excess nutrients. A bloom happens when there’s a rapid growth of algae, causing discolored water and unpleasant odors. Learn more at www.in.gov/idem/algae.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Blue-green algae advisory issued Dixon ditch Kankakee River tributary
