POLK COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk) has issued public health advisories following the detection of blue-green algae blooms in two separate locations: Lake Hancock – South Central and Lake Crago – by Boat Ramp, both on April 9, 2025. Water sample testing is currently underway at both locations to determine the presence and concentration of toxins.
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are common in Florida’s freshwater environments. While not all blooms produce toxins, the potential for harmful substances exists, prompting officials to urge residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution.
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DOH-Polk advises the public to adhere to the following safety guidelines for both Lake Hancock and Lake Crago:
- Avoid Contact: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, or come into contact with water where a visible bloom is present.
- Wash Thoroughly: If you come into contact with algae or discolored, unpleasant-smelling water, wash your skin and clothing with soap and water.
- Protect Pets and Livestock: Keep animals away from the affected areas, as contaminated water is unsafe for them. Provide alternative water sources.
- Do Not Use Contaminated Water for Cooking: Boiling water will not eliminate toxins.
- Fish Consumption: Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is considered safe if the fillets are rinsed with tap or bottled water, the guts are discarded, and the fish is cooked thoroughly.
- Avoid Shellfish: Do not consume shellfish from waters with algae blooms.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and its partners are actively monitoring the situation at both lakes, collecting and analyzing water samples. Toxin results will be available on the Protecting Florida Together website and the DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.
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Blue-green algae blooms can appear as scum, foam, or paint-like substances on the water’s surface, exhibiting various colors. Factors such as sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions, and excess nutrients contribute to bloom formation.
Blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to humans, pets, and ecosystems. Sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, are particularly vulnerable.
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