Officials have issued a public health warning about the water conditions at Lake Mitchell.
The lake is experiencing a harmful algae bloom that could pose a risk to both humans and animals. As a result, swimming in the lake is strongly discouraged, and activities that involve water contact, such as water skiing, are also advised against.
The city has been working on finding solutions to improve water quality at Lake Mitchell, but cost concerns have hindered progress so far.
The presence of harmful algal blooms makes it challenging to assess health risks accurately. If the microcystin toxin concentrations in the lake reach or exceed 8 µg/L in any testing location, a public health warning will be issued.
Additionally, a warning may also be issued if there is confirmed evidence of a visible and widespread cyanobacterial scum.
A public health warning includes the same precautions as a public health watch but emphasizes that elevated levels of harmful toxins are present and discourages any contact with the lake.