Advisory Set at Two County Lakes

LANGHORNE, Pa. -- Recreational activities like boating, kayaking, fishing and wading are “under advisement” at lakes in two Bucks County, Pa., parks after the finding of “algal blooms” that potentially are harmful to humans and animals.

Bucks County Parks and Recreation Department said affected are Lake Luxenbourg in Core Creek Park in this town and Lake Galena in Peace Valley Park in New Britain Township. No date was released on when the advisory might be lifted.

“If you were to boat or kayak, for example, be cautious and stay out of the water,” said a Core Creek representative.

In its advisement, the county said certain recreational activities in and around waterways were prohibited. It said inhaling contaminated water droplets, drinking contaminated water or eating fish from contaminated park waterways could result in symptoms like skin, eye and nose irritations, with more serious symptoms if swallowed. Pets also should stay clear of the water, officials urged.

The “algal blooms” occur when high nutrient levels combine with warm temperatures and slow-moving waterways, according to officials, who said human activities are major sources of excess nutrients.

Immediately rinse off with clean, fresh water if in contact with the affected water, recommended the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection that monitors the environmental occurrence. It said that anyone showing signs of illness should seek medical attention and any pet that appears ill should be seen by a veterinarian.

The “algal blooms,” known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), appear like “bubbling scum, spilled paint or hairy-silky strands.” They vary in shape, size and color, ranging from blue-green to yellow, red, brown and orange.

It’s “not unusual” for the blooms to flourish in Pennsylvania in the summer as water temperatures rise, said Angela Nagle, executive director, parks and recreation department. Slow moving water worsens conditions.

“In recent years,” she said, “it’s been noticed the frequency of these blooms have increased significantly but awareness is still low throughout southeastern Pennsylvania.”

HABs are “toxic groups of cyanobacteria,” she said, that are dangerous to humans, animals and natural ecosystems. The bloom eventually dies and decomposes, causing a foul odor.

“Boat docks can often be a place where people and pets congregate, so it’s especially for authorities to watch for the HABs there,” said Nagle.

(What do you think? Is climate change a factor here?)

Restrictions advised at two lakes in Bucks County.Photo byAaron BurdenonUnsplash