The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, has issued its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae. When a warning is issued, they recommend precautions be taken, including seeing that pets or livestock do not drink the water. Of course, lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. Under a warning, 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. Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation. A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People should avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE also says swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing not a good idea near visible blooms. Boating and fishing are safe, but inhalation of the spray may affect some people. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact. Clean fish well and eat the fillet portion only. For information visit www.kdheks.gov