Colorado health officials warn about toxic algae blooms as 4 water sites show dangerous concentrations

State Health Officials Warn of Toxic Algae in Colorado Reservoirs and Lakes

Denver – The Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) is urging Coloradans to be cautious of toxic, blue-green algae while engaging in recreational activities in reservoirs and lakes this summer. The warmer weather has led to the growth of algae blooms, which can be harmful to both humans and pets.

Temporary Closures and Potential Blooms

So far this year, three water sites in Colorado have been temporarily closed due to dangerous concentrations of toxic, blue-green algae blooms. Additionally, eight other sites are awaiting confirmation from a state lab regarding potential blooms in their water.

According to a spokeswoman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), swimming, paddleboarding, and wading are currently prohibited near the marina and West Shades area of Cherry Creek Reservoir due to elevated levels of microcystin, an algal toxin. However, boating and fishing are still allowed. Recreation is also currently prohibited at Barr Lake, Dewesee, and Road Canyon reservoirs.

Several other reservoirs across the state, including Jumbo, North Sterling, Jackson, Stagecoach, Beaver Creek, La Jara, and Vega, have reported potential blooms. Blue Haron Lake is awaiting test results for algal toxins.

To check for algae bloom concentrations at any of these sites, visit the CDPHE website and select the “Recent conditions” tab.

Precautions at Vega Reservoir

Visitors to Vega Reservoir in Colorado’s Western Slope are advised to avoid any activities in the water where algae is visible. It is especially important to be mindful when walking pets near the reservoir and prevent them from drinking the water or ingesting dried scum along the shoreline, as blue-green algae can be toxic to pets. If accidental exposure occurs, rinse pets thoroughly with potable water and wear gloves for personal protection if possible.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that pose health risks to humans and pets at elevated concentrations. If you or your pet comes into contact with a harmful bloom, it is important to take immediate action.

• Rinse your pet off immediately with fresh, clean water if they come into contact with a harmful bloom.
• If you or someone you know comes into contact with the bloom, wash with soap and water immediately.
• If your pet shows symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, drooling, difficulty breathing, or convulsions/seizures after exposure to the water, contact a veterinarian immediately as these toxic algae can be fatal to pets.
• Humans exposed to the algae may experience skin irritation, diarrhea, stomach pain, fever, headache, and sore throat. Exposure to the toxins can also harm the liver, kidneys, and neurological systems.

Mitigating Algae Blooms

While algal blooms are common in the summer when water temperatures rise, there are steps individuals can take to help prevent their occurrence:

• Pick up after your pets and properly dispose of their waste to prevent nutrients from entering waterways, which contribute to algae blooms.
• Refrain from using excessive amounts of fertilizer.
• If using de-icers, ensure they do not contain urea.

To learn more about blue-green algae and toxic blooms, visit the CDPHE’s website.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• SDG 14: Life Below Water

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and increasing recycling and safe reuse globally.
• SDG 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Presence of toxic, blue-green algae blooms in reservoirs and lakes.
• Elevated levels of microcystin, an algal toxin.
• Temporary closure of water sites due to dangerous concentrations of toxic algae blooms.
• Confirmation from a state lab about potential blooms in water sites.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: denver7.com

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