It’s another week of blue-green algae warnings and watches for several area lakes and ponds.
Emporia’s Peter Pan Pond remains in an algae warning for a fourth straight week, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Lebo City Park Lake, Melvern Outlet Pond and Melvern Outlet Swim Pond are in algae watches for the second straight week.
Blue-green algae is highly toxic to people and animals alike and can be lethal. During algae warnings, water contact should be avoided by humans and animals alike and lake water is not safe for pets or livestock to drink. Fish may be eaten, but only if they are rinsed with clean water and the fillet portion only is consumed. Pets should not eat dried algae because they may get seriously ill or die.
For algae watches, KDHE says algae has been detected and a harmful bloom is either present or likely, meaning water may be unsafe for both humans or animals. People and animals need to avoid areas where algae has accumulated and neither should eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged, while boating and fishing are safe but direct contact with water should be avoided.
If you see a scum-like or paint-like substance on the water’s surface or if you see bright green water, avoid contact and keep pets away. More information is available online to www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm.
