Merritt Reservoir on alert for toxic algae
The state of Nebraska has added Merritt Reservoir in Cherry County to its health alert list for toxin from blue-green algae.
As of Friday, four of the state’s lakes were on the list.
Alerts continue for Pawnee Reservoir in Lancaster County, Kirkman’s Cove Reservoir in Pawnee County and Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County. An alert for Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County has been lifted.
The state plans to monitor 47 lakes through September.
People can still camp, fish and boat on lakes under the alerts but should not have full-body contact.
The algae are common in freshwater. Some types can produce dangerous toxins.
Drinking toxin-tainted water can cause vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory failure and, rarely, death.
As of Friday, four of the state’s lakes were on the list.
Alerts continue for Pawnee Reservoir in Lancaster County, Kirkman’s Cove Reservoir in Pawnee County and Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County. An alert for Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County has been lifted.
The state plans to monitor 47 lakes through September.
People can still camp, fish and boat on lakes under the alerts but should not have full-body contact.
The algae are common in freshwater. Some types can produce dangerous toxins.
Drinking toxin-tainted water can cause vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory failure and, rarely, death.
Copyright © 2002-2009 Lincoln Journal Star. All rights reserved.