The state has issued health alerts for Harmful Algal Blooms, also known as toxic blue-green algae, at Wagon Train Lake in Lancaster County and Rockford Lake in Gage County. Lakes that continue to be on health alert are Maple Creek Recreation Area Lake in Colfax County, Kirkman’s Cove Lake in Richardson County and Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County. Bluestem Lake in Lancaster County has been removed from the list of lakes under health alert.
Samples taken earlier this week at these lakes were above the health alert threshold of 8 parts-per-billion of total microcystin, a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae. This is a lower threshold than previous years, based on recommendations issued in 2019 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics and other outdoor activities.