You May Not Want To Swim In This Connecticut Lake This Summer Due To A Dangerous Discovery

Did you know that the algae found in lakes can actually be toxic? That’s not always the case, but unless you know what you’re looking for you could be taking a very dangerous swim. The Lake Zoar Authority is already warning residents that this could be a high season for blue-green algae blooms at their lake, which is not good for recreational swimmers. A toxic algae bloom has several health effects if exposure is prolonged or water is ingested.

And it’s not just you. If you like bringing the dog along, they’re just as at risk. If you’re exposed to a high amount of toxins in the water, it can result in irritation of the skin, nose, eyes and respiratory tract, gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea upon ingestion, and liver or nervous system effects. It may even lead to Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

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Nothing unusual, actually. In small doses, algae isn't a problem and most Connecticut lakes have some. But they've been seeing an increase the last two years and Zoar officials worry that it may reach toxic levels this summer. The levels rise when there's a dry season or an increase of fertilizer runoff in to the water. Luckily, testing the water isn't the only way to know the algae is toxic. There are also some physical signs to look for.

Suzanne Phillips/Flickr

This is what blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, looks like. The water is cloudy and can even be thick, resembling pea soup. In some cases, it looks as though someone has poured green paint into the water. The water will also be murky, cloudy and, in some cases, frothy at the top. Long time lake swimmers will immediately recognize the strange waters but new visitors may not. So spread the word!

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There are usually posted warnings if toxic algae is confirmed, so if you see some bits of green on the surface like this just keep in mind that "algae happens." But be on the lookout for turquoise colors and thick patches. To obtain the latest information on ongoing blue-green algae blooms, call your Local Public Health Agency, CT Department of Public Health at (860) 509-7758, or CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection at (860) 424-3020.

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This popular lake is harmless most of the year, but experiences high levels in October. So it's possible that if you're swimming towards the end of the summer season, your risk of exposure is higher. If you do come into contact with toxic algae get out immediately and rinse thoroughly.

But there’s no need to be alarmed! The important thing is to check with your local lake authority and the lake’s DEEP page before planning your trip. All lakes, and especially ponds, are susceptible to toxic algae blooms. As long as you take precautions we should all have a fun and totally safe summer.

Speaking of fun, here are some swimming holes we love.