High Algal Toxin Levels Detected In Edina's Lake Cornelia

Press release from the City of Edina:

August 23, 2020

Edina, Minn., Aug. 22, 2020 – The Nine Mile Creek Watershed District has collected water samples that indicate high algal concentrations in Lake Cornelia that may include blue-green algae in numbers that exceed the World Health Organization (WHO) threshold for moderate probability of adverse health effects. The public is advised to have no contact with the water in Lake Cornelia.

High levels of blue-green algae are a concern because this type of algae can produce algal toxins, which can post a health threat for pets and people if ingested when concentrations become high enough.

Blue-green algae are a type of cyanobacteria present at low levels in many Minnesota lakes and ponds. When water is stagnant, warm and rich in nutrients – especially phosphorus – cyanobacteria can grow quickly, forming “blooms.” These blooms typically look like pea soup or bright green paint. They can produce a strong, swampy odor as the cyanobacteria breaks down.

Nine Mile Creek Watershed District will evaluate samples from the lake to determine the type and number of blue-green algae. Until the results are available, the City and Watershed District urge people and pets to stay out of the water.

For more information on blue-green algae and harmful algal blooms, visit https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/blue-green-algae-and-harmful-algal-blooms or https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/hab/index.html. For more information on Lake Cornelia, contact City of Edina Water Resources Coordinator Jessica Wilson, 952-826-0445.

This press release was produced by the City of Edina. The views expressed here are the author’s own.