Don’t touch the water at these Kansas lakes under blue-green algae advisories
Kansans who want to enjoy Memorial Day at Colwich City Lake or Marion Reservoir should be aware they are under a public health warning for blue-green algae.
Those lakes are in the warning category, which means a harmful algae bloom is expected or present, and the lakes are unsafe for people and animals, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
The department recommends that direct contact with the water be avoided: Don’t drink the water, swim in the lake or ski on the water.
Fishing is still considered a safe activity during the advisory. However, fish should be rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion should be consumed.
Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that can carry toxins to humans and animals. The toxins can be absorbed through ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and skin contact. Potential symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.
The algae does not have to be visible on the surface of the water to be harmful. However, if visible an algal bloom may look like scum, foam or paint floating on the water. The colors of the bloom may appear to be blue, bright green, brown or red.
Other Kansas water bodies under the warning advisory include Big Eleven Lake in Wyandotte County, Gathering Pond in Geary County and Jerry Ivey Pond in Saline County.
Kansans can visit kdhe.ks.gov for updates.
