Blue-Green Algae Warnings & Advisories In Place At 10 Kansas Lakes & Reservoirs - KC Star

[hatrack]

Ponds and lakes around Kansas right now look more like hideouts a lagoon monster might crawl out of than peaceful fishing grounds. That’s because a dense, rapidly reproducing, foam-like slime known as blue-green algae is spreading like wildfire.

Bountiful sunshine, unyielding heat, low water flow and no wind have created the perfect recipe for brewing the algae. “Algae thrive in high light and warm water situations with a good source of nutrients,” said Tom Langer, director of the Bureau of Environmental Health with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “We have seen a unique set of factors this year combine to make perfect conditions for algae blooms.”

Langer said the department has seen a significant increase in the number of health complaints from people after visiting lakes. Symptoms can range from a sore throat or cough to itchy skin and vomiting. No serious illnesses have been reported, Langer said.

In large quantities, the algae emits toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. This has prompted the department to issue advisories and warnings in nine Kansas counties, including Jefferson. The two swimming beaches at Perry Lake closed last weekend because of concerns of harmful algae blooms. The beaches are now open, but a public health advisory is in effect for the lake. At least 10 other state lakes, mostly in central Kansas, were under advisories and warnings as of Friday afternoon.

EDIT

http://www.kansascity.com/2011/07/24/3034386/slimy-algae-spreads-in-kansas.html

[damntexdem]

1. But don't worry: drinking that horrid-tasting algae water is perfectly safe.

LOL!

It's why I started drinking only bottled water year round. I just don't trust what comes out of the tap.