Toxic algae risks rise once again

With warmer weather within reach, the city has resumed monitoring blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) for toxins that can be harmful to people and animals. According to a news release, initial monitoring conducted during the first two weeks of May found the algae at all of the sites the city keeps tabs on aside from Walsh Boat Landing. Officials recommend that all algae is assumed toxic, which means that pets and humans should avoid contact, not drink lake water (or lick lake water-soaked fur), and rinse off after contact with water. In the meantime, the city will continue its monitoring efforts and a pilot program that applies lanthanum-modified clay to help reduce the phosphorus available for algae growth. According to the news release, that program has thus far had mixed results: “Over the past two years, we have seen a drop in nutrient levels and the amount and toxicity of blue-green algae near Red Bud Isle. However, last year we did not see the same success east of I-35. This may have been due to rainfall and increased flows through the lake following the applications.”

Anyone experiencing sudden, unexplained symptoms after swimming should contact a medical provider or the Texas Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. In the case of pets, contact a veterinarian. The city also asks people who have experienced toxic algae to complete its reporting form, found at AustinTexas.gov/algae.