Harmful Algal Blooms Detected
PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County warns residents about harmful blue-green algal toxins found in Dowling Lake and Blanton Lake. Water samples taken on June 25th, 2024 confirmed their presence.
Precautions for Residents and Visitors
- Avoid contact with the water: Do not drink, swim, wade, use watercraft, or boat in areas with visible blooms.
- Wash thoroughly: If you touch the water or discolored areas, wash your skin and clothes with soap and water.
- Protect pets: Keep animals away from the lakes. Don’t let them drink or swim in the contaminated water. Provide alternative water sources for pets and livestock.
- Don’t use contaminated water: Avoid cooking or cleaning dishes with bloom-affected water. Boiling won’t remove toxins.
- Safe Fish Consumption: Rinse fillets from healthy fish caught in these lakes with clean water, discard the guts, and cook thoroughly.
- Shellfish Warning: Avoid consuming shellfish from these lakes entirely.
Read: Man Electrocuted To Death While Trimming Trees In Hudson: Pasco Sheriff
What are Blue-Green Algae Blooms?
These are common bacteria found in Florida’s freshwater. Blooms occur when rapid algae growth discolors the water and creates floating mats with unpleasant odors.
Contributing Factors:
- Sunny days
- Warm water temperatures
- Still water conditions
- Excess nutrients
Blooms are more frequent in summer and fall, but can appear year-round. Many types of blue-green algae produce toxins.
Health Risks
These blooms can harm human health and aquatic ecosystems.
For details on potential health effects, visit: floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins.
Reporting Blooms and Health Concerns
- Report blooms to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection:
- Call toll-free: 1-855-305-3903
- Report online
- Report fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute: 1-800-636-0511
- Report health issues from algal bloom exposure: Florida Poison Information Center: 1-800-222-1222
- Report pet illness: Contact your veterinarian
- Other health questions: Florida Department of Health in Pasco County: 813-619-0300
Stay Informed
- Current water quality information and public health advisories: ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov This is a state initiative promoting water quality transparency and action.
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