COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency announced on Thursday that the public health advisory for a suspected harmful algal bloom (HAB) in Hillsdale County’s Lake Diane has been lifted.
Final laboratory results from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy of the samples collected on August 15, 2023 were non-detectable for cyanotoxins.
Health Officer Rebecca Burns said in a statement from the Health Agency, “We are pleased the results for cyanotoxins was non-detectable on August 15th. Cyanobacteria can turn their toxins on and off, and the level of toxin in a body of water can change. Harmful Algal Blooms have occurred in the jurisdiction previously during August. We encourage all residents and visitors to our many area lakes to avoid any discolored water, scums, or algal matter.
She went on to say, “The agency has been monitoring for any increase in reported skin rash, as this can be a result of contact with cyanotoxins. To date we have seen no increase in reported cases. To avoid skin rash wear clothing that is loose fitting in the openings to reduce chances of rashes. If you have had contact with algal material we recommend you shower or wash once you are ashore.”
You can recognize an algal bloom because it will cause a tint to the water and sometimes appear as a scum, clumps, or may look like paint floating on the water. Avoid contact or swallowing water in an area with visible algae bloom.
If you suspect an algal bloom on your lake, contact the EGLE Environmental Assistance Center at 800-662-9278 or email AlgaeBloom@Michigan.gov.
Sending photos is helpful to investigating staff. To learn more about HABs, visit www.michigan.gov/habs.
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