As summer recreation season begins, the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources is reminding the public to avoid contact with discolored water that may indicate an algal bloom.
While algae occur naturally in all waterbodies, certain conditions — including warm temperatures, increased sunlight, excess nutrients and low water flow — can trigger rapid growth known as an algal bloom.
Some blooms can produce toxins harmful to people, pets and aquatic life. Because harmful algal blooms cannot be identified by appearance alone, health officials urge caution.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services advises people to avoid contact with large algae accumulations and keep children and pets from swimming in or drinking affected water. Officials also note that other pollutants and microorganisms may be present in recreational waters.
For more information, visit algae.nc.gov.