North Sterling Reservoir closed for potentially deadly toxic algae bloom

DENVER (KDVR) — The North Sterling Reservoir in North Sterling State Park was closed as of Saturday for a toxic algae bloom that could be dangerous or deadly to people or pets.

According to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, swimming, water skiing and wading are not allowed. Boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing were allowed.

Fishing is also allowed, but any fish caught should be rinsed with clean water. People should also properly dispose of fish guts.

Still, people should make sure kids and pets are kept out of the water, CPW said. Exposure to toxic algae could be deadly for pets.

People should also make sure to not ingest the water. If anyone does end up exposed to the water, they should shower immediately.

According to CPW , “toxic algae may resemble thick pea soup, spilled paint on the water surface, and/or create a thick mat of foam along the shoreline.”

It is usually green, red, gold or turquoise.

People should avoid boating through visible algae scum to avoid making the water splash.

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