California water officials have issued a "toxic algal bloom” warning, telling people to stay clear of Silverwood Lake until further notice.
Blue-green algae blooms, a natural part of the ecosystem, can produce toxins that can make people and animals ill, according to the California Department of Water Resources.
Silverwood Lake officials said the California Department of Water Resources notified state parks that harmful algae may be present, prompting a caution level advisory to protect the health and safety of park visitors and pets.
“While swimming is allowed in the lake, visitors are advised to stay away from algae and scum in the water or on the shore,” Silverwood Lake officials stated. “Do not let pets or other animals go into or drink the water or eat scum on the shore."
A copper sulfate treatment was scheduled for Tuesday, May 7 to control the bloom.
California Department of Water Resources
Bloom conditions can change rapidly, and wind and waves may move or concentrate the bloom into different regions of a reservoir. Algal blooms can vary in characteristics from a variety of textures to colors, state officials stated.
The state monitors and regularly tests the California State Water Project water for algal toxins. When tests are positive confirming a harmful algal bloom is present, advisories are posted on-site, at the reservoir, and online.
Once toxins are found, testing continues, and the posted health advisory and recommended precautions are not reduced until lab results show the algal is declining and toxin levels have been below the level of concern for two weeks.
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