Harmful Blue-Green Algae Blooms Detected In 2 Howard County Lakes

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Lake Kittamaqundi and Lake Elkhorn in Howard County have tested positive for blue-green algae. Jackson Pond and Wilde Lake showed no signs of the algae growth.

Preliminary tests conducted by the Maryland Department of the Environment show the presence of potentially harmful algae blooms, but that does not necessarily mean that dangerous levels of the toxin are present, according to officials.

Because of the preliminary test results, the Columbia Association has asked people to take the following precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of the people and animals who use the lakes:

1. Avoid fishing and boating
2. Avoid any direct contact with the water
3. Prevent pets from going into or consuming the water

The pathways and open space areas around Lake Kittamaqundi and Lake Elkhorn remain open for public use. Anyone who has had contact with or ingested water from the two lakes should contact the Howard County Health Department at 410-313-1773.

Harmful blue-green algal blooms occur when algae grows out of control, spurred by excess nutrients in the water. This can be toxic to humans, animals and aquatic wildlife.