County lake upgraded to ‘watch’ while reservoir remains under ‘warning’ for algae

Marion County Lake was upgraded July 7 to a “watch” for harmful algal blooms while Marion Reservoir remains under a “warning” as determined by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism.

If a lake is under a public health warning for blue-green algae, activities such as boating and fishing may be safe. However, direct contact with water (i.e., wading, skiing and swimming) is strongly discouraged for people, pets and livestock.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions:

• Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.

• Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.

• Water contact should be avoided.

• Fish may be eaten as long as they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.

• Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.

• If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.

• Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

Milford Reservoir and Sam’s Pond also are under public warning.

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