Peak season might be over for many, but those using area lakes should be aware of a dangerous growth that could be especially dangerous for children, hunting dogs and pets.
The danger comes from “Blue-Green Algae”, more properly known as Cyanobacteria, something we noticed a few weeks ago in numerous patches floating on Gerber Lake. Gina LaLiberte, the Wisconsin DNR’s coordinator for such algae blooms, said the right conditions for that involve warm waters, something being sustained longer than usual this past summer. The organisms form mats on the bottom and vegetation, often breaking loose and floating to the surface. The bacteria produce toxins that can cause serious illness if ingested by small children or dogs playing in the water. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhea from ingestion and sore throat and wheezing from inhalation. Some also get skin irritation and rashes from contact, and pets have been known to die if not given immediate veterinary care after ingestion.
LaLiberte said the best practice is to avoid contact with the floating masses or to keep children and pets out of any waters where they show up as floating mats or make the water look like pea soup. The good news is that the populations should begin to disappear quickly with cooling waters.
Clumps of Cyanobacteria Among Vegetation in Gerber Lake. Photo by Kevin Zimmermann
Comments