A blue-green algae bloom has developed near Eureka.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, has issued a public health watch for Fall River at State Street Bridge until further notice. The watch means the algae has been detected and a harmful bloom is either present or is likely to develop.
Blue-green algae is highly toxic to people and animals. Because the water may well be unsafe, residents are told to avoid areas where the algae has accumulated and to make sure people and pets do not eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are all discouraged. Boating and fishing are safe but inhaling the spray may cause medical reactions for some people. People need to avoid direct contact with the water and to wash thoroughly with clean water after any contact.
If you’re planning to eat fish caught from the area, clean with potable water and only eat the fillet portion.
Lebo Kids Pond and Melvern Lake Outlet Pond have both been in separate algae warnings for about a month.
