Blue green algae warning at Central Park Pond
Two state agencies are warning people and pets to avoid coming into contact with the water at Central Park Pond.
A blue-green algae warning was issued Thursday for the central Topeka fishing hole. Boating and fishing may still be safe and people can still eat what they catch, so long as it's rinsed with clean water, officials say.
The warning, issued by the Kansas Dept. of Health and Environment and Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, is the first one on the summer season. Watches were also issued for Colwich City Lake, in Sedgwick Co., and Marion Co. Lake.
When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions:
- Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock;
- Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans;
- Water contact should be avoided;
- Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded;
- Do not allow pets to eat dried algae;
- If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible, and;
- Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.
A warning does not mean the lake is closed, officials say. The marinas, nearby businesses, and camping facilities all remain open and the drinking water and showers are still safe.
Blue-green algae blooms can be unpredictable and develop rapidly and may float around the lake. Areas with a scum, paint-like surface or if the water is bright green should be avoided.
Pets that swim in or drink water by a bloom or eat dried algae may become seriously ill or die.
