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State DNR Issues Algae Advisory for Mississinewa Lake

Brian Hubbard
/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/hubster/

Beware of the water in Mississinewa Lake--the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has issued a blue-green algae advisory.

DNR spokesperson Ginger Murphy says visitors should avoid drinking the water and take a shower after they swim.   

She says blue-green algae blooms are a seasonal occurrence in some Indiana waters, fueled by heat, sunlight and fertilizer runoff from lawns and farms.

"You need to look at the water," says Murphy. "If it really is a green look or a green sheen to it, then that's a good indication there may be a problem."

Some blue-green algae produce toxins that can cause rashes, skin and eye irritation, nausea and stomachaches.

The DNR also recommends keeping pets out of the water or preventing them from drinking the water.

Mississinewa is currently the only lake in the state under any form of algae alert.