The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), has issued a public health advisory for a suspected harmful algal bloom in Lake Diane. Harmful algal blooms, caused by cyanobacteria, can produce toxins called cyanotoxins that pose a risk to both pets and people.
On August 15th, staff from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) collected water samples from Lake Diane. Preliminary field testing revealed cyanobacteria formations on the northeast side of the lake. Laboratory testing for cyanotoxin presence is currently underway.
Residents and visitors of Lake Diane are urged to avoid any discolored water, scums, or algal matter, including floating rust-colored mats or clumps. Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that vary in level and can be harmful. Water sample results will be available from EGLE in the coming days.
To protect yourself and your animals from harmful algal blooms, it is important to:
– Recognize the signs of an algal bloom, such as tinted water, scum, or paint-like appearance on the water.
– Report any suspected algal blooms to the EGLE Environmental Assistance Center at 800-662-9278 or via email at AlgaeBloom@Michigan.gov. Sending photos is helpful for investigation.
Harmful Algal Bloom On Lake Dianne- Photo Courtesy Branch-Hillsdale-Saint Joseph Community Health Agency