Local News
Peak Blue-Green Algae Bloom Season is On the Way
The Wisconsin DNR and Wisconsin Department of Health
Services are reminding people that may be heading out to lakes and rivers this
summer to be on the lookout for blue-green algae on bodies of water across the
state. Some of the algae can cause illness in people and animals who accidentally
swallow, inhale or come into prolonged contact with it. The algae blooms tend
to grow when there is a lot of sunlight, water temperatures and nutrient levels
are high and there is little wind. The blooms usually peak in Wisconsin from
July through September, but can happen from June or later and usually have a “pea
soup” appearance. DHS says common symptoms of exposure to algae blooms include
a skin rash, gastrointestinal illness and respiratory irritation. People and pets
should stay out of the blooms and should shower with clean water after swimming
in any lake, pond or river.