Blue-green algae and harmful algal blooms

With the warmer days we are having, the possibility of harmful and toxic algae in our lakes is much higher. We highly recommend anyone using the lake review what the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has outlined for safely using the lakes.

A great summary from the MPCA:

! Do not swallow lake water or touch foam, scum, or algal mats

! Do not let pets swim in scummy water or lick algae off their fur

! Rinse fish with fresh, clean water and throw away guts before cooking and eating

! Do not swim in areas where you cannot see your feet in knee-deep water

Additional resources from the MPCA

• Harmful algae blooms: Water recreation advisories

• Example photos of harmful algae blooms in MN

• Blue-green algae - Summertime in Minnesota: When in doubt, best keep out!

For more information on harmful algal blooms, please call 651-757-2822