PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) has issued a health alert due to the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Blanton Lake.
This alert follows water sample analysis conducted on January 2nd, 2025, which confirmed the presence of toxins. The public is advised to exercise caution in and around Blanton Lake.
READ: Florida Gas Prices Fluctuate Amid Rising Oil Costs And Geopolitical Tensions
Precautionary Measures
DOH-Pasco recommends the following precautions:
- Avoid Water Activities: Refrain from drinking, swimming, wading, or using personal watercraft in areas with visible blooms.
- Wash Thoroughly: Wash skin and clothing with soap and water after contact with algae or discolored water.
- Protect Pets and Livestock: Keep animals away from the affected water and provide them with an alternative water source.
- Safe Food Handling: Do not use contaminated water for cooking or cleaning dishes. Boiling does not eliminate the toxins. Rinse fish fillets with clean water, discard the guts, and cook fish thoroughly before consumption. Avoid eating shellfish from the lake.
READ: Pasco Planning Commission Votes For Moratorium On ‘Connected City’ Project
Understanding Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater environments. Blooms occur when excessive algae growth discolors the water and often produces floating mats with unpleasant odors. Blooms are more frequent in warm weather and can produce toxins harmful to humans and aquatic life.
Health and Environmental Impacts
Blue-green algae blooms can pose risks to human health and ecosystems. More information about the potential health effects of algal blooms can be found at floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins.
Reporting and Resources
- Report blooms: Contact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at 855-305-3903 or report online.
- Report fish kills: Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 1-800-636-0511.
- Report symptoms: Contact the Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222.
- Pet concerns: Consult your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after contact with contaminated water.
For questions or concerns about blue-green algae blooms, please contact the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County at 813-619-0300.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.