WFHB Bloomington Community Radio
The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is warning a toxin-producing algae has been found at Griffy Lake.
A report from the Indiana Clean Lakes Program indicates blue-green algae is present in Griffy Lake. Blue-green algae, a group of bacteria that thrive in warm, still water with plenty sunlight, may release toxins, even after dying.
The Parks and Rec Department states a test was positive for Oscillatoria, a type of blue-green algae common in freshwater environments. The Parks and Recreation Department issued an algae warning to visitors at Griffy Lake as a precaution on Sept. 20. Dogs visiting Griffy Lake should be kept on a leash and not permitted to swim in or drink from Griffy Lake. Dogs may ingest large amounts of algae when they drink the water, and if the algae is producing toxins, the animal may become ill.
Swimming is not permitted in Griffy Lake, and staff recommends bathing thoroughly with soap and water after boating activities, including paddleboarding. Lake water should not be used for drinking or cooking; however, according to the Indiana State Department of Health, fish caught in Griffy Lake during algae blooms are safe to consume.
Steve Cotter, natural resources manager for the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, said water in Griffy Lake has been tested by the Indiana Clean Lakes Program since 1990. He said weather patterns over the past two weeks created ideal growing conditions for blue-green algae.
Cotter said Griffy Lake will continue to be monitored for blue-green algae. If algae blooms are suspected or observed, water samples will be taken and tested.
