latest of many poisoned lakes in Neb. Pawnee Reservoir

http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/woalert_read.php?cid=12582&cat=dis&lang=eng


The state issued a health alert Friday for Pawnee Reservoir west of Lincoln, continued alerts for three other lakes and dropped one for Fremont Lake No. 20. The alerts warn about dangerous toxin levels from blue-green algae. The continued alerts are posted at Conestoga Reservoir in Lancaster County, Swan Creek Lake No. 5A in Saline County and Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County. Health alert signs are posted, and the beaches at the lakes will remain closed during the alerts. The state is sampling more than 40 public recreational lakes through September. Nebraska health officials say people can camp, fish, go boating and participate in other recreational activities on lakes under alert for the algae. But people should not have full-body contact with the water and they should not swallow it. The algae, which scientists say are actually plantlike bacteria, are common in freshwater the world over. Some types can produce dangerous toxins. Drinking toxin-tainted water can cause vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle pain, paralysis, respiratory failure and, rarely, even death. Pets and livestock are especially vulnerable. Swimming in toxin-tainted but otherwise clear water can cause rashes, hives, runny nose, irritated eyes and throat irritation _ particularly among people who have sensitive skin.)
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