The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, issued a Blue-Green Algae Watch for Big Hill Lake due to the presence of blue-green algae detected in the lake. Due to this advisory, the swim beach at Big Hill Lake is now closed as a precaution.

 

During the watch status, KDHE recommends that signage should be posted at all public access locations, avoid areas of algae accumulation, and swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing are discouraged.

 

Pet owners should be aware that animals swimming in or drinking water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

 

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.