Sampling results

DEQ plans to continue sampling every week this summer at any lake with a level of microcystins above 2 parts per billion (ppb) and at any other lake where it appears there may be an outbreak of the toxic variety of algae. Sample results will be posted weekly prior to the weekend.

Samples taken: July 6, 2004        Analysis completed: July 9, 2004

RESULTS FROM July 6:

The analysis of recent sampling shows:

Three lakes are currently considered in Health Alert status (see below for an explanation of the “Alert” and “Advisory” terms):

Alexandria Lakes State Recreation Area (west lake)

Hanson Lake #4

Fremont State Recreation Area Lake #20. The test result for this lake showed levels of toxic algae have dropped, but remain at a level that may be unsafe for recreational use.

In addition, a small bay on the southeast side of Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area tested high for the presence of toxic algae. Persons using the lake should avoid this area. The rest of the lake (including the swimming beach) is considered safe for recreational use.

Levels of toxic algae found in samples taken from the following lakes are low, and the public should follow the recommendations of a Health Advisory (see below). Alexandria Lakes (east lake), Arends Pond, Beaver Lake, Bellevue Rod and Gun (north and south lakes), Betty Lake, Buccaneer Bay Lake, Chris Lake, Fremont Lakes #9 and #10, Fremont Victory Lake, Hanson Lakes #1, 2, and 3, Hawaiian Village, Hidden Lake, Horse Shoe Lake near Ruby, Linder Lake (east), Louisville State Recreation Area Lake #2, Mormon Island State Recreation Area, Nebraska Dog Hunt Club oxbow near Lincoln, Sailboat Lake, Schramm Park, Thomas Lake, Two Rivers State Recreation Area Lake #4, Villa Springs near Springfield, Wa-Con-Da, Windmill State Recreation Area, and Woodcliff Lake.

In addition, DEQ field personnel conducted visual inspections of the Linder Lakes known as middle, horseshoe, and west. They observed no problems, and did not sample the lakes.

An explanation of the ratings:

The Health Alert designation (risk to public is high) means:

1) the initial samples taken at the lake showed levels of toxic algae at or above concentrations of concern;

2) the more detailed sampling results indicate that the amount of toxins in the water are greater than the level the state believes is safe for full-body recreational activities, such as swimming and water skiing.

A Health Alert can also be issued at sites where sampling results have not yet been analyzed, but unusual circumstances, such as illness or death of animals and the presence of a large algae bloom, have been reported. In those situations, the state will conduct sampling and post results as quickly as possible.

When a Health Alert is in effect, the state advises people to stay out of the water, based on the analysis of the most recent sample analysis. Keep a close eye on your children and pets to make sure they stay away from the water. Particularly avoid algae blooms. Most importantly, make sure that water is not consumed, because it could contain potentially fatal toxins.

The Health Advisory designation (risk to public is low) means that sampling results indicate the amount of toxins in the water are at a level that the state believes is safe for full-body recreational activities, such as swimming and water skiing.

In other words, a Health Advisory is in effect when toxins have been identified and are still at detectable levels in the lake. However, they are not at concentrations that should pose a danger. Since these levels are variable, people should use caution, and, if an algae bloom returns, the water should then be avoided.

For lakes that have not been sampled, the same precautions of the Health Advisory should be followed if any of the following characteristics are noted at the lake: if there is an algae bloom, if there is foam, scum or a thick mat on the water surface; green or blue-green streaks on the surface or accumulations in bays and along shorelines; or if you note a bad odor.