Nebraska Health Alert: Beware of Toxic Blue-Green Algae at Iron Horse Trail Lake and Maskenthine Reservoir

In recent weeks, the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) has issued a health alert for harmful algal blooms, also known as toxic blue-green algae, at Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County and Maskenthine Reservoir in Stanton County. Samples taken earlier this week at the lakes on alert measure above the threshold of eight parts per billion of total microcystin, which is a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

The state is urging caution in the area and has closed designated swimming beaches during the alert. While recreational boating and fishing are allowed, the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water or any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Pets should not be allowed to get in the water or drink from the lake. The state says that people can still use public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

The NDEE has been conducting weekly sampling at 55 public lake sites since May 1st. Lakes will continue to be monitored weekly through September. The state’s monitoring is conducted early in the week at public lakes with swimming beaches and high public activity. Sampling results for HAB and bacteria are updated every Friday and posted on NDEE’s website.

To view the weekly data for these lakes sampled, visit [insert link]. To receive daily updates on breaking news delivered straight to your email inbox, subscribe to our 10/11 NOW daily digest by clicking here. Copyright 2024 KOLN. All rights reserved.