Park District Officials Warn of Toxic Algae in Dog Park Pond

ST. CHARLES, IL - The St. Charles Park District is urging residents to keep their dogs out of the pond at the dog park at the East Side Sports Complex. The park district has posted signs at the park regarding toxic algae that was found in the pond and has also gated off access to the pond, park district officials said Monday. Residents are urged to keep their dogs on dry land while at the park.

Park district officials said the added warnings come after some visitors from the dog park have expressed concern after their dogs became ill after swimming in the pond.

"Signs were made alerting all patrons to the dog park that there has been a report of toxic algae in the pond and to keep your dog on dry land. Signs have been posted on all gates and entry points and the gate between the fenced dog park and the pond is locked, restricting access to the pond," according to the park district's Facebook page.

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The park district is also working with a local lab to have the pond tested and to evaluate the health of the water.

"We are in the process of testing the water, the pond access will remained closed until we have results," Laura Rudow, superintendent of parks and planning for the St. Charles Park District.