Toxic Algae Bloom At Quarry Lakes

FREMONT, CA — A toxic algae bloom of cyanobacteria — blue-green algae — has forced the East Bay Regional Park District to make all water at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area off-limits to dogs, and a caution advisory has been issued for Niles Swim Beach.

Absolutely no swimming or wading is allowed by dogs. Dogs are especially susceptible to the toxins because they are more likely to drink the water.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of exposure to cyanobacteria include loss of appetite, loss of energy, vomiting, stumbling and falling, foaming at the mouth, diarrhea, convulsions, excessive drooling, tremors and seizures, or any other unexplained sickness after being in contact with water.

The park district regularly tests water quality during the swim season to ensure it is safe for the public.

"We regret the inconvenience to limit the public’s use of all of our swim facilities," said Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor.

The park district blames the algae bloom on low water levels.

Visitors should check the status of swim facilities at any East Bay Regional Park before heading out.