Algae watch issued for county lake

A blue-green algae watch was issued Friday for Marion County Lake.

A watch means blue-green algae may be present and water could be unsafe for people and animals.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment is advising lake visitors to avoid areas where algae is visible and to keep people and pets from drinking contaminated water or eating dried algae along the shore.

Swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing near visible blooms also are discouraged.

Boating and fishing remain safe, although KDHE warned that inhaling water spray may affect some individuals. Fish should be cleaned thoroughly with potable water, and only fillets should be eaten.

Blue-green algae blooms can appear as foam, scum, or paint-like material floating on the water and may be blue, bright green, brown, or red in color.

People or animals exposed to harmful algae can experience symptoms including rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

Anyone who comes into contact with affected water should rinse off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible.