CPW warns of toxic algae bloom at DeWeese Reservoir

(WESTCLIFFE, Colo.) — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is warning the public to avoid contact with the water due to a toxic blue-green algae bloom happening at the DeWeese Reservoir State Wildlife Area.

“Algae has become a seasonal problem at DeWeese, forcing CPW to close the water in recent summers to all activity except fishing to prevent the risk of exposure to humans and their pets,” said CPW District Wildlife Manager Justin Krall. “The algae can be harmful to people and pets if touched. It can give sensitive people a bad rash, for example. And it’s possibly fatal if ingested.”

According to CPW, signs will be posted at the reservoir warning people to keep kids and pets out of the water and to not drink the water at the risk of death. The signs will also say there are no water recreational activities allowed including; swimming, skiing, paddle-boarding, and wading.

“You can still fish during an algae bloom,” Krall said. “But there should be no skin-to-water contact. It’s also important to take care when handling and cleaning any fish caught in DeWeese. Toxins accumulate in the liver and guts of fish. So it’s important that any fish taken is properly cleaned and thoroughly cooked before eating it.”

The warning was prompted when testing found dangerous levels of toxicity in the water and a turquoise-colored film was seen on the reservoir indicating elevated levels of algae. Toxic blue-green algae blooms are common when temperatures rise and usually in late summer, CPW has been taking weekly water samples to check for toxicity.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) recommends:

• Keep kids out
• No pets in the water
• Do not drink water
• Avoid contact with algae
• If exposed, shower immediately

CPW said the public can help reduce the occurrence of blue-green algae blooms by preventing nutrients from entering waters through responsible use of lawn fertilizers, picking up pet waste, and avoiding using deicers that contain urea.

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