The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) determined that Blue-Green Algae is present at Lakewood Park Lake, 1323 E. Iron Avenue, and the following precautions should be taken:
- People and pets should avoid contact with the lake water or dried algae.
- People and pets should avoid areas of algae accumulation.
Numerous signs have been placed around the perimeter of the lake to make people aware of this warning.
No activities are scheduled for the remainder of the year.
All other water facilities within the park (restrooms and water fountains) are not subject to this warning.
Pet owners should be aware that pets that swim in or drink water affected by Blue-Green Algae, or eat dried Blue-Green Algae may become seriously ill or die.
If people or pets come into contact with lake water or dried algae, wash off the area of contact immediately with clean water. Should nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, irritated eyes, seizures, breathing problems or other unexplained illness occur, immediately contact a doctor or veterinarian.
The City of Salina will continue to work with KDHE to identify and implement the best approach to safely and effectively treat the Blue-Green Algae in the lake.
KDHE samples publicly-accessible bodies of water for Blue-Green Algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas. Based on sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.
For information on Blue-Green Algae and reporting potentially harmful algal blooms, visit www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm. Human and animal illnesses potentially related to harmful algal blooms can also be reported through this website or by calling the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at (877) 427-7317.
For further information about Lakewood Park Lake, contact the Parks & Recreation Department at (785) 309-5765.