Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms found naturally in all types of water. In warm, nutrient-rich environments, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly, creating blooms that spread across the water's surface. 

Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, are known as the intense, rapid growth of algae or cyanobacteria in the water with the potential to harm human health or aquatic ecosystems. Some cyanobacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals. 

You may or may not be able to see algal blooms. They sometimes stay below the water's surface, or they may float on the water's surface.
Some blooms can look like foam, scum, or mats, particularly when the wind blows them toward a shoreline.
Harmful algal blooms sometimes look like paint streaked on the water's surface and can be different colors.
The blooms can be blue, bright green, brown, or red. As cyanobacteria in a bloom die, the water may smell bad, similar to rotting plants, as they decompose in the water. 

Heavy rainfall and significant runoff conveys nutrients to the reservoir. When followed by hot weather, blue-green algae can thrive and multiply. 

When In Doubt, Stay Out!

• Avoid water contact in areas where the water is discolored or where you see foam, scum, or mats of algae on the water’s surface.
• Children and pets are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of the toxins produced by blue-green algae. Do not allow children or pets to play in or drink discolored/scummy water.
• If you have contact with water that might contain harmful cyanobacteria, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible afterwards.

Algal blooms are an annual occurrence within shallow, warm water reservoirs. Algae can be present year round within the lake, however large algal blooms and HABs typically occur and persist throughout the summer months (June - September). Generally, algal blooms disappear in late September or early October once water temperatures start cooling off. 
Throughout the summer, algal bloom conditions can worsen or improve depending on:

• air and water temperatures (hotter = more severe blooms)
• rainfall and lake sediment input of nutrients (more = more food for algae reproduction and growth)
• wind action mixing of the surface waters (more = break up of algae colonies)

Algal bloom statuses change depending on the current conditions present within the lake.
Risks to humans and animals increase as a status increases from Watch to Advisory to Warning.
Algal bloom statuses can change quickly throughout the season, especially from June through October.

WATCH - Low Risk

• The conditions for an algal bloom to occur are present, however there has not been a potential HABs sighting/report. 
• No Closures
• Be alert and aware of HAB signs

ADVISORY - Moderate Risk

• Algal blooms are currently occurring in the lake and the conditions for a HAB are present.
• No Closures, further testing required.
• Be alert and aware of HAB signs. Avoid contact with potential HABs.

WARNING - High Risk

• Harmful algal blooms are currently occurring in the lake.
• Designated swimming areas will be closed.
• Do not make contact with the water.