On the heels of reports of algae blooms in Hess Lake DHD#10 issued this press release after more were discovered in Hardy Pond
District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) was notified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) that algae blooms were detected on Hardy Dam Pond near the Newaygo State Park in Newaygo County. On August 22, 2022, MDHHS took water samples from Hardy Dam Pond that were sent to the MDHHS lab where results came back positive for microcystin, an algal toxin released by some types of algae in lakes or rivers. MDHHS then notified District Health Department #10 and the Newaygo County Parks and Recreation Commission of the results and provided guidance on posting signs and notifying the public about the situation. Algae blooms can form when there are high nutrient levels within bodies of water along with warm temperatures. Additional testing will take place again the week of September 5, 2022 and signs have been posted at (1) Hardy Dam County Marina and (2) Sandy Beach County Park to notify individuals to avoid contact with the water in that area. “Algae blooms look like a green mat right on top of the water that smells bad and has a gelatinous texture to them,” stated Michael Kramer, Environmental Health Director for DHD#10. “The algal toxins that are released can be harmful to aquatic life, pets, and humans so it is very important to avoid these areas.” Below are some steps to take when near waterways:
People and pets can experience the following symptoms after exposure to algae blooms:
For more information about Algal Blooms, please visit https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/water-resources/assessment-michigan-waters/harmful-algal-blooms.
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February 2025
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