High Numbers Of Blue-Green Algae Discovered On Lost Lake In Plymouth

Press release from the City of Plymouth:

May 6, 2021

The City of Plymouth advises residents to avoid exposure to Lost Lake in Plymouth after a recent analysis of water samples revealed high numbers of blue-green algae, which may be toxic to humans and animals.

Residents are advised to avoid swimming and other recreation activities, as exposure to algal toxins may cause severe illness or discomfort. Touching, swallowing or inhaling the water droplets may lead to exposure.

Located in a residential neighborhood southeast of Zachary Lane N. and Rockford Road (County Road 9), Lost Lake does not have public lake access. Residents who live around the lake have been notified.

The analysis showed algae numbers that exceed the World Health Organization threshold for moderate probability of adverse health effects. Though algal toxin testing has not occurred on the lake, high levels of blue-green algae can produce algal toxins, which, in high concentrations, can pose a health threat for pets and people.

Algae blooms are caused by excessive nutrients in the water. Sources may include rain/stormwater runoff and overfertilization of lawns.

Public Health Information

For more information about harmful algae blooms, residents may call the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency at 651-757-2822.

Potential health effects in humans should be reported to the Minnesota Department of Health Foodborne and Waterborne Illness Hotline at 1-877-366-3455 or https:// health.state.mn.us/diseases/foodborne/reporting.html.

For health questions, residents may contact MDH’s Waterborne Diseases Unit at 651-201-5414 or visit https://health.state.mn.us/diseases/hab/index.html.

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