Toxic algae is in more than 40 California lakes, waterways
Toxic algae is in more than 40 California lakes, waterways
Sep 18, 6:41 PM EDT
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- Toxic algae has shown up in more than 40 state lakes and waterways from Los Angeles to the northern reaches of California, the highest count in state history.
Water agencies have been caught off guard by the growing extent of the algae, which is triggering health warnings, the closing of swim areas and a reduction in park visitors and revenues, the East Bay Times reported Sunday (http://bit.ly/2cUzrt5).
"The algae caught everyone by surprise, and it was difficult to get clear guidance and protocols on what to do about it," said Carolyn Jones, an East Bay Regional Park District spokeswoman. "We went more than 80 years before we had a closure for this toxic substance in the drought."
The cyanobacterium, which occurs naturally, can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions in people and sickness and death among pets and wildlife. The cyanobacterium has blossomed during the state's drought.
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