BEWARE! Minnesota Lakes Currently Ripe for Harmful Algae Blooms

When in doubt, it is best to keep out! Minnesota lakes are turning into breeding grounds for dangerous, life-threatening algae blooms.

The dog days of summer have arrived, and unfortunately, our lakes aren't fairing well.

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What should swimmers look for before entering a lake?

Blue-green algal blooms often look like pea soup or spilled green paint. They can also emit a swampy odor.

In most cases, you'll be able to tell if a lake is contaminated. However, sometimes the algae can cover small portions of a lake, making it harder to identify.

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Cyanobacteria, the bacteria in the 'algae,' thrives in warm, nutrient-rich water, which is why we see it during the end of August. The algae flourish in warm, shallow lakes.

Not all blooms are harmful, and unfortunately, one can't tell if a bloom is dangerous or not due to its appearance. 

Possible Health Effects of Contact W/ Algae:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Eye Irritation
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Headache

Level of Risk:

How can you reduce your risks from harmful algae blooms?

• Of course, you'll want to avoid contact, but if you do interact with algae-laden water, be sure to clean off with soap afterward.

• Don't use untreated water for any activities, including drinking and cooking. Boiling water from an untreated lake only increases toxin levels. 

• Don't allow your animal to enter lakes with scum or 'spilled paint.' If they do go into the waters, wash them immediately, and DO NOT let them like their fur. Animals have died after ingesting harmful algae blooms.

BEWARE! Look Out For These Dangers In MN Lakes!

After months of waiting, lake season is here! It's time to spend your days soaking up the rays and swimming in the refreshing water. Just make sure you watch out for these potential hazards.

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Illness Producing Bacteria

Swimming in the lake on a hot day is wonderful, unless, of course, the water is infected with bacteria. It is not unheard of for Crypto, E. Coli, or Shigella to be present in bodies of water. The effects of these bacteria range from vomiting to life-threatening infections. Never drink lake water, and always shower after a day at the beach.

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Quicksand

Quicksand can be found where there is grainy soil. This includes riverbeds, lake shorelines, and areas near underground springs. Last year, I was trapped by quicksand in a river. Luckily, it was shallow, and my family had time to rescue me. Either way, it is extremely terrifying.

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Old Fishing Lines and Lures

More than once, I've had a fishing line snap into the water. You do not want to get tangled up in an old line, or more importantly, step on an old rusty hook. It may not be life-threatening, but it will cause discomfort.

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Jagged and Slimy Rocks

Water shoes are your friends. Not only do they protect you from sharp rocks, but also give your feet a better grip when encountering slippery rocks. Many rocks are covered in moss or algae. The last thing you want to do on your beach day is head to the ER because you slipped and injured yourself.

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Swimmer's Itch

Swimmer's itch is a skin rash caused by certain microscopic parasites that live in freshwater. If you develop a swimmer's itch, you'll experience burning or itching and small blisters or pimples will appear. It should go away on its own in a few days, but it is still an unpleasant experience.