The swimming beach at Carver Lake in Woodbury has been closed after blue-green algae was spotted in the body of water.
“Lake users are advised to avoid contact with the lake until further notice,” a city news release states. “City staff will continue to monitor and test for blue-green algae.”
Not all blue-green algal blooms produce toxins but there is no way to predict if or when a bloom will produce toxins. “For this reason, it is best to avoid contact and stay out of the water,” the release states.
The Minnesota DNR says when summer temperatures heat bodies of water above 75 degrees, conditions are ripe for shallow Minnesota lakes to produce harmful algae blooms, some of which can be harmful to pets and humans.
Pets, especially dogs, are susceptible to harmful algae because they are relatively small and tend to swallow more water while swimming and playing. Dogs may ingest algae if they lick their coats after leaving the water. They are also less deterred by green, smelly water that may contain harmful algae.
If you believe you or your pets are experiencing adverse health effects from contact with lake water or algae, the city says to seek medical attention immediately.