YANKEE SPRINGS, MI — The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is advising residents and visitors to use caution after a harmful algal bloom (HAB) was found at Gun Lake at Yankee Springs State Park.
According to it’s news release, harmful algal blooms happen when blue-green algae (also called cyanobacteria) grow quickly in lakes and ponds. Some blooms can make toxins that are harmful to people and animals. You cannot tell if a bloom is harmful just by looking at it, so it is best to avoid any water that has visible algae.
Do not swim, wade, water ski, or play in water that is discolored or has algae floating on the surface, according to the health department. Harmful algal blooms can make the water look bright green, blue-green, brown, or red. It may also look like spilled green paint, pea soup, or have thick mats of algae on the surface.
Pets are at greater risk because they may drink lake water or lick algae off their fur after swimming.
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