HILLSDALE COUNTY, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency, in consultation with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued a public health advisory for a suspected harmful algal bloom in Hillsdale County’s Lake Diane.
Harmful algal blooms are actually caused by cyanobacteria, which sometimes can produce toxins called cyanotoxins that can be harmful to pets and people.
Staff from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) took water samples from the lake on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.
Preliminary field testing identified cyanobacteria formations on the northeast side of the lake.
Laboratory testing for the presence of cyanotoxins is pending.
Community Health Agency Environmental Health Director Paul Andriacchi says, “Lake Diane residents and visitors are encouraged to avoid any discolored water, scums, or algal matter, including floating rust-colored mats or clumps. Cyanobacteria can turn their toxins on and off, and the level of toxin can change. Water sample results will be available from EGLE in the coming days. Thank you to the area homeowner who took photos and submitted the information to the EGLE Environmental Assistance Center. Their actions allowed EGLE staff to evaluate the situation in a timely manner.”
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