State health officials have released warnings about two lakes in south central Kansas because of high levels of toxic blue-green algae. Blooms have been found in Cheney Lake and in Marion Reservoir.
According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, both lakes are still open, but contact with the water is strongly discouraged for people, pets and livestock. Ashton Rucker with the KDHE says blue-green algae can take on a variety of different appearances.
“The main thing we want people to look for is a scummy surface or something that looks like green paint in the water,” Rucker says.
The KDHE says pet owners should take extra precautions. Animals that swim in or drink affected water or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.
So far, Cheney Lake and Marion Reservoir are the only bodies of water in the state with warnings in effect. Rucker says the KDHE expects to see more blue-green algae blooms as the summer progresses.
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