A health alert has been issued by the state for harmful algal blooms, commonly known as toxic blue-green algae, at Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County and Maskenthine Reservoir in Stanton County. Samples taken earlier in the week at these lakes have shown levels of the toxin microcystin above the threshold of eight parts per billion.
While the alert is in effect, the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy advises the public to use caution in the area. Swimming beaches at the affected lakes are closed during the alert, though recreational boating and fishing are still permitted. However, people are urged to avoid exposure to the water and activities that could result in swallowing the water. It is also recommended to keep pets out of the water and not let them drink from the lake.
Despite the alert, public areas around the lakes, such as camping and picnic sites, remain open for use. Weekly sampling is being conducted at 55 public lake sites since the beginning of May, and will continue through the end of September. The results of these samples are updated every Friday on NDEE’s website, where you can also find data for the lakes sampled.
The state’s monitoring is focused on public lakes with swimming beaches and high public activity. To stay updated on the latest alerts and news, you can subscribe to 10/11 NOW’s daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered to your email inbox.