Wisconsin DNR issues beach warning for algae

WISCONSIN (Northern News Now) – Wisconsin beachgoers have more than just a high UV to look out for this summer.

The Wisconsin DNR says people should be on the lookout for blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, which can have harmful effects on humans and pets, including serious illness if swallowed.

Blue-green algae are photosynthetic bacteria and can appear in two distinct ways.

Planktonic blue-green algae will look like tiny particles, dust, or grass clippings floating in the water and are usually green, tan, reddish-purple, or blue.

Bottom-dwelling mats of benthic blue-green algae can float to the surface and are often brown, black, or turquoise in color.

This type of algae grows in all bodies of water in Wisconsin, with peak bloom season in July and August when waters are at their warmest.

Most lakes and rivers in Wisconsin are not tested for the algae, so it is important to not swim in water that looks like pea soup, spilled paint, or water that has a scum layer, mats, or puffy blobs floating on the surface.

Waters with high nutrient levels are most susceptible to blooms, but even lakes with excellent water quality may occasionally experience small blooms, especially after periods of calm weather.

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