Reservoir warning extended

Marion Reservoir beaches, closed since June 12, will remain closed until July 31 because of toxic blue-green algae, state health officials announced Thursday.

Fishing and boating are still safe. It also is safe to eat fish caught from the reservoir. However extra precaution should be taken to make sure fish are rinsed of any reservoir water.

Blue-green algae, technically cyanobacteria, can release a neurotoxin that can be fatal to humans and animals and cause serious illness.

Algae levels are measured each week after algae is found, and advisories or warnings are updated as needed on Thursdays.

Marion County Lake is under no warning or advisory.

Other lakes under algae warnings are Chisholm Creek Park and Lake in Sedgwick County, Memorial Park Lake in Barton County, northern parts of Milford Reservoir, Jewell County State Fishing Lake, Atchison City Lake, and South Park Lake in Johnson County.