Lincoln, Nebraska — The state has issued a health alert for harmful algal blooms (HAB), also known as toxic blue-green algae, at Bluestem Lake in Lancaster County for the second week.

Recent samples measured above the threshold of eight parts per billion (ppb) of total microcystin, a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

Public Guidance

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed.

Avoid contact with lake water
Do not swallow lake water
Keep pets out of the water
Do not allow pets to drink lake water

Boating and fishing are allowed, and public areas remain open for camping and picnicking.

Monitoring and Data

Weekly sampling has been conducted at 56 public lake sites since early May. Monitoring will continue through the end of September.

Health Information

Harmful algal blooms may develop between sampling periods or in lakes that are not regularly monitored.

Learn how to identify HABs and protect yourself:

Harmful Algal Blooms Fact Sheet

Sampling Partners

DWEE works with the following partners:

Central District Health Department
Nebraska Public Power District
Upper Republican Natural Resources District
Lower Republican Natural Resources District
South Platte Natural Resources District
Middle Niobrara Natural Resources District
Lower Loup Natural Resources District
Nemaha Natural Resources District
Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

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Health Alert Continues for Bluestem Lake

News Release