The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is warning visitors to Blue Marsh Lake to avoid contact with lake water due to a harmful algal bloom, which has prompted the closure of the Swim Beach at the Dry Brooks Day Use Area.
Officials say recent testing revealed toxin levels above safe standards in the designated swim area, and extremely high levels of blue-green algae have been detected throughout the lake. As a result, the public is urged to avoid all water contact until further notice.
The advisory, issued by the USACE Philadelphia District, comes as part of a heightened alert about the potential health risks posed by harmful algal blooms. Exposure to the toxins—produced by certain types of cyanobacteria—can be dangerous to people and animals, particularly children and pets.
Visitors are asked to remain vigilant and look out for signs of an active bloom, including extremely discolored water, scum, foam, or mats of algae on the lake’s surface. Anyone who comes in contact with affected water should rinse off with fresh water immediately.
The closure will remain in place until water quality tests show conditions have returned to safe levels. For updates and more information on harmful algal blooms at Blue Marsh Lake, visit: www.nap.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Blue-Marsh-Lake/Harmful-Algal-Bloom-Information
