Both lakes under algae advisories

Visitors to both Marion County Lake and Marion Reservoir are being advised of problems with blue-green algae this week.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

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

Warning signs must be posted at all public access points to the lake.

An algae watch at Marion Reservoir, originally issued May 24, was extended.

The reservoir is among six lakes under watches.

A watch indicates that a harmful bloom is possible and may be present. KDHE requires that warning signs be posted at all public access points.

Visitors are warned that water may be unsafe for humans and animals. Areas of algae accumulation should be avoided, and people and pets should not eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.

Swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms. Boating and fishing are safe, but inhalation of spray might affect some people.

Direct contact with water should be avoided, and visitors should wash with clean water.

An algae bloom could look like foam, scum, or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red.

Blooms can develop rapidly.

Symptoms of illness vary depending on the type of exposure. Symptoms may include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.