Algae blooms seen at Lost Dog

Algae blooms have been discovered at the Lost Dog area of the Flaming Gorge, prompting the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and Wyoming Department of Health to issue an advisory for people recreating in the area.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a harmful algae bloom occurs when colonies of algae grow out of control and produce toxins harmful to fish, animals and people.

Algae blooms occur in every state. NOAA cites climate change and nutrient pollution, where chemicals feeding algae cause population growth, as main contributors to the blooms.

In a press release, Dr. Jean Stachon, the Sweetwater County Health Officer, said the blooms aren’t unusual at this time of the year, especially in still waters when water temperatures have been high.

Residents recreating in the area are advised to follow some precautions when near an algae bloom:

-- Avoid contact with water in the vicinity of the algae bloom, especially in areas where blue-green algae are dense and form scums.

-- Do not drink or consume the water. Boiling, filtration or chlorination will not remove toxins and will not make the water safe for drinking.

-- Caution should be taken when eating fish as health effects remain unknown. Rinse fish with clean water and eat only the fillet portion.

-- Do not breathe water spray in areas of the bloom.

-- Keep pets and livestock away from the water. Do not allow animals to drink the water, eat dried algae or groom themselves after contact with the water.

-- If people, pets and livestock come into contact with a bloom, rinse off with clean water as soon as possible.

Dr. Stachon advises people to seek medical help if they come in contact with an algae bloom.

People with weakened immune systems, as well as children and pregnant women may be at increased risk from the blooms. Animals should be taken to a veterinarian if they consume or come in contact with a bloom.