Health Alert Issued for Toxic Blue-Green Algae

HUMBOLDT, LEIGH --- Swimming areas at two different lakes in Nebraska will be closed for at least two weeks due to toxic algae. The state has issued a health alert for toxic blue-green algae for Kirkman's Cove in Richardson County, and Maple Creek Recreation Area Lake in Colfax County. Samples taken from 52 different public lakes in Nebraska revealed that the two areas showed that the lakes were above the state's health alert threshold. The swimming areas in the two lakes will be closed during the alert, and signs are posted to warn the public, and advise them to be cautious. Recreational boating, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities are permitted, but people are advised to avoid exposure to the water. The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality says the algae releases toxins that have been known to be harmful to pets and humans. Pets and farm animals have died from drinking water containing the harmful algae. The alert will continue for at least two more weeks and the lakes will continue to be monitored.