The public health advisory for the harmful algal bloom in Lake Diane has been lifted.
The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has received final laboratory results from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) regarding the suspected harmful algal bloom in Lake Diane. The testing results of the water samples collected on August 15 were negative for cyanotoxins.
However, Health Officer Rebecca Burns, emphasized that cyanobacteria can turn their toxins on and off, and the toxin levels in the water can change. Therefore, residents and visitors are still encouraged to avoid any discolored water, scums, or algal matter in the lake.
The agency has been monitoring for any increase in reported skin rashes, as they can be a result of contact with cyanotoxins. So far, there have been no reported cases.
For more information about harmful algal blooms, visit www.michigan.gov/habs.