Toxic algae blooms found at three Nebraska lakes

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services issued a health alert on Friday over harmful algal blooms in three Nebraska lakes.

The toxic blue-green algae has been identified at Maple Creek Recreation Area Lake in Colfax County, Duck Creek Lake in Nemaha County, and Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County.

Samples that were taken at the lakes earlier in the week indicate toxic levels above 8 parts per billion.

Signs are posted at the lakes to warn the public to use caution while around the water.  The swimming beaches will remain closed while the alert is active.

Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to avoid exposure to the water, particularly exposure that could result in swallowing the water.

The health department asks that pet owners refrain from allowing their animals to drink from the lake.

Visitors can still use public areas for camping, picnics and other outdoor activities.

The department said weekly sampling has been conducted at 53 public lakes since the first week of May.  Those lakes will continue to be monitored weekly through the end of September.

Sampling results are updated every Friday on the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy website.