BISMARCK, N.D. - North Dakota state agencies are warning people to avoid contact with blue-green algae that can develop in the state’s water in the hot late summer weather.
Tests have already found presence of the cyanobacteria at the Homme Dam recreational site near Park River.
Exposure from ingesting affected water can cause illness in people and animals, and can result in death. There are no known antidotes for the toxins.
The North Dakota Departments of Health and Agriculture also urge people to protect their pets and livestock from waters that are affected.
Blue-green algae discolor the water they live in, and can cause foam, scum or mats to appear on the surface. The health department can test water for evidence of toxins, and if they are detected, can issue warnings to the public. However, because it can take time to test water, people are urged to err on the side of caution and avoid waters that look discolored or scummy, or that have a foul odor.
