Village Of Lake In The Hills: Wedgewood Pond Algae Bloom

Press release from the Village of Lake In The Hills:

07/28/2021 5:30 PM

NOTICE:  A blue-green algae bloom has been identified at Wedgewood Pond, located off of Wedgewood Circle, in Lake in the Hills. At this time, visitors and their pets are asked to use caution and avoid any direct contact with visible algae blooms.

When blooming, blue-green algae can be mildly toxic to humans, where contact may result in a rash, mild nausea, or allergic reactions. Blooming blue-green algae can also be toxic to animals, so it is recommended to practice the same caution and prevent pets from drinking from and entering Wedgewood Pond.

Signage is posted at the pond to notify visitors.

For questions, please contact Guy Fehrman at 847-960-7507 or utilize the Contact Us form on the Village website. Additional information on Wedgewood Pond and blue-green algae bloom can be found below.

On July 28, 2021, Public Works staff identified what was believed to be blue-green algae in Wedgewood Pond. Staff collected water samples for an independent testing and photos to be reviewed by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). The IEPA has visually confirmed the blue-green algae bloom.

Algae blooms are common this time of year due to the high temperatures and low rainfall. Not all algae blooms are harmful, but certain blue-green algae present a risk to humans and animals if they are directly exposed to or consume algae. As a precaution, the Village has reported the algae bloom to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) for examination. The Village will continue to work with the IEPA to monitor pond conditions, and any updates will be posted on the Village website and social media. 

IEPA Blue-Green Algae Fast Facts

This press release was produced by the Village of Lake In The Hills. The views expressed here are the author’s own.