Blue-green algae is becoming an issue at several bodies of water statewide, including Melvern Lake.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the lake is now in an algae watch until further notice. A watch status says blooms have been detected and may be present, although the US Army Corps of Engineers has said blooms have been noted in certain areas of the lake.
Over 15 bodies of water are now in a watch or warning across Kansas.
During a watch, people are asked to avoid algae accumulation areas and keep pets and livestock away from the water. Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing is discouraged, although boating and fishing are safe — so long as people wash with clean water after any contact. Fish caught in or near algae-affected waters need to be cleaned well with potable water and people should only eat the filet portion.
If you see a scum or paint-like surface, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments, or if the water is opaque green, those are all indications of an algae bloom.
*Click here for the KDHE algae information page.
*Click here for the KDHE algae bloom map.
