KDHE issues public health advisories for several Kansas lakes

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued public health advisories for several Kansas Lakes.

KDHE says the advisories are due to blue-green algae.

The water recreation season in Kansas runs from April 1 to Oct. 31, along with the harmful algae blooms (HAB) response program’s active operations.

The following is a list of active advisories:

Warning

• Gathering Pond, Geary County
• Jetmore City Lake, Hodgeman County (Added June 26)
• King Lake, Lyon County
• Kirwin Lake, Phillips County (Added June 26)
• Lake Afton, Sedgwick County
• Marion Reservoir, Marion County
• Pomona Lake, Osage County 
• Wellington Lake, Sumner County 

Note: A Warning status indicates that a HAB is expected or present.

Watch

• Augusta Santa Fe Lake, Butler County 
• Chisholm Ridge Ponds (Clearwater), Sedgwick County
• Clinton Lake, Douglas County
• Ford County Lake, Ford County (Added June 26)
• Jeffrey Energy Center Make-up Lake, Pottawatomie County 
• Jewell State Fishing Lake, Jewell County 
• Marion County Lake, Marion County (Added June 26)

Note: A Watch status means that a HAB is possible and may be present.

Lifted

• Herington City Lake (Old), Dickinson County

KDHE says Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

HAB could look like foam, scum, or paint floating in the water and could be blue, bright green, brown, or red in color. If the water looks suspicious or there is decaying algae on shore, KDHE says avoid contact and keep dogs away. Toxins can be absorbed through ingestion, inhalation of aerosols, and even skin contact. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of exposure, but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

If you or a pet comes in contact with algae, rinse the area with clean and fresh water. Suspected HAD health incidents should be reported at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.