Blue-Green Algae In Indiana Lakes

14 Jun 2011

Boaters and swimmers using Indiana lakes for recreation purpose should be aware of high levels of blue-green algae also known as Cyanobacteria. Blue-green algae can be present in increasingly high quantities making swimming and boating hazardous. Precautions such as avoiding contact with visible algae and swallowing water while swimming should be taken. Also, be sure to wash with warm water and soap after coming in contact with bodies of water that are untreated. Keep pets and livestock away from untreated water. Exposure can cause a broad number of side effects from rashes, skin and eye irritation to nausea, stomach aches, and tingling in the fingers and toes.

Sampling begins the week of June 20th. Lakes will be sampled monthly, unless cell counts exceed 100,000. If cell counts are higher than 100,000 sampling will be done biweekly. The beaches at the following DNR managed areas will be tested:

Potato Creek State Park
Pokagon State Park
Chain O' Lakes State Park
Miami State Recreational Area at Mississinewa Reservoir
Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area at Salamonie Reservoir
Raccoon State Recreational Area at Cecil M. Hardin Reservoir
Paynetown State Recreational Area on Monroe Reservoir
Hardy Lake State Park
Whitewater Memorial State Park
Summit Lake Sate Park

Counts greater than 100,000 cells/ml are considered high risk to health in recreational waters. The following samples have already been performed:

Eagle Creek Reservoir: cell counts were above 100,000 on 6/6/2011
Geist Reservoir: cell counts were below 100,000 on 6/6/2011
Diamond Lake in southern Kosciusko County: cell counts above 100,000 on 5/25/2011

For more information on Blue-Green Algae contact the information at 877-650-0033 or 317-233-7181

For more information on general pond and lake treatments contact Sanco.