Friday, September 2, 2011

Warnings back at 2 beaches on Buckeye Lake

algae warnings, courtesy Columbus Dispatch

Toxic blue-green algae have re-emerged at Buckeye Lake, prompting state officials to post health warnings yesterday at two public beaches…

The microcystin concentrations do exceed a state-set standard of 6 parts per billion in water, meant to protect children…

Blue-green algae are common in most Ohio lakes and streams, but they can grow thick feeding on phosphorus contained in sewage, manure and fertilizers that rains wash into streams.

The algae can excrete as many as four types of liver and nerve toxins in water, which can sicken people and kill pets, fish and wildlife

Last summer, the state posted warnings at 20 state waterwaysmore